Exeter Compile 3 - Side Story Dates: June 8, 2020 to June 14, 2020 Mission: To boldly go, Day -7 to Day -2 Mission: The Flames of Purity, Day 1 to Day 9 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -7 Stardate: 2445.08.26 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – SPA – Ensign JG Rylee Page – 1137) (USS Exeter – Deck 13, Operations Department – Ensign Boone Foster – 1139) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – aCoS Ens. (SG) Paul Sleeford - 1140) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – Med Intern aEns(jg) Lana Wakeman- 1141) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1142) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – aCoS Ens. (SG) Paul Sleeford - 1143) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1144) (USS Exeter - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2O/CEO - Lieutenant Keira Merek & Engineering Intern - Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 1640) (USS Exeter – Counsellors office – CMO / Couns - Ens Gabe Vesper / Ens Jester Lavorre – 1800) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -6 Stardate: 2445.08.27 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Deck 8, Main Tactical Briefing Room - Ensign JG Greta Smith - 0907) (USS Exeter - Deck 8, Main Tactical Briefing Room - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 0909) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -2 Stardate: 2445.08.31 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Nine and Dine - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Bar Manager Caity DuBois 2220) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 1 Stardate: 2445.09.01 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay – First Officer/CMO - Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken/Ens Gabe Vesper – 1047) (USS Exeter - Geology Lab – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 11:03) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - ACMO ensign Kasian Poldan –1359) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez –1401) (USS Exeter - Bean me up – Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels & Intern Acting Ensign Rissa Williams - 17:00) (USS Exeter - Counselor Office - COUNS, Ens(sg) Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre and 3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove - 1819) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.02 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay – ACMO– Ensign Kasian Poldan– 0856) (USS Exeter – Sickbay – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0900) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 2130) (USS Exeter - Holodeck - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 2145) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and CMO, Ensign Gabe Vesper - 2210) (USS Exeter - Deck 8-Room 8-1225- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2259) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters of Jaelle Foxglove - CIO/3O Lt. JG Jaelle Foxglove and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 23:00) (USS Exeter - Deck 9-Holodeck- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2312) (USS Exeter - Deck 9-Nine and Dine- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2331) (USS Exeter - Captain’s Quarters - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Dir. R & SE Ashlyn Williams - 23:45) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 3 Stardate: 2445.09.03 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper- 06:00) (USS Exeter – FOs Office - CMO / FO - Ens Gabe Vesper / Lt Aimee Bracken- 0750) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0800) (USS Exeter - Bridge - COO LIEUTENANT JG Ravok- 0802) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0810) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0811) (USS Exeter – Holodeck 2 - CMO / CO / CIV- Ens Gabe Vesper / Lt Cmdr Trip Williams / Ashlyn Williams- 09:00) (USS Exeter - Counselor's Office - -COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre & Tac PO3 Sytuk (SPC) -1415) (USS Exeter - Bean me up - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez, COO Lieutenant JG Ravok, SPC Nesha Kervik - 1503) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 19:00) (USS Exeter - Geology Lab - ACSO Ens Adala Michaels and MO Ens Kyros Ryelle - 19:15) (USS Exeter - Quarters of Ronnie Winters - CMO, Ens Gabe Vesper and ACFO, Ens Ronnie Winters - 19:20) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 4 Stardate: 2445.09.04 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Jefferies Tube - Engineers -Ensign - Kryx/ Galu Vozi - 0330) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper,Surgeon General VAdm Aimee Bracken - 0600) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Armoury - aCoS Ens SG Paul Sleeford – 08:30) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0831) (USS Exeter – Quarters - TAC Ens JG Stan More – 08:32) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper, CO - Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 09:00) (USS Exeter - Shooting - ACTO Ensign SG Paul Sleeford - 09:54) (USS Exeter – Shooting Range - TAC Ens JG Stan More – 09:55) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range - TAC. P03 Sutuk – 0957) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range - TAC/SEC - Ens. Stan More – 10:00) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – aCoS Ens SG Paul Sleeford – 10:01) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – Tac. PO3 Sytuk Ryakna (SPC)– 10:06) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – TAC/SEC Ens.Stan More 10:10) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1330) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper - 1331) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1333) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1335) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1336) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO - Ens Gave Vesper - 1337) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – Ensign – Greta Smith / Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams – 2230) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 5 Stardate: 2445.09.05 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Medical - aConus Ensign(jg) Harlequin Lavorre - 1411) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 6 Stardate: 2445.09.06 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald - 2310) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 7 Stardate: 2445.09.07 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Holodeck – CFO – Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams - 2332) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 8 Stardate: 2445.09.08 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Quarters of Billy Alexander - CIO/3O Lt. JG Jaelle Foxglove and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 1900) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 9 Stardate: 2445.09.09 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & SPC Lt James Hart - 1932) (USS Exeter - Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & FO Lt Ailynn Bracken - 2004) (USS Exeter – Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 23:00) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:03) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:05) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ensign SG – Gabe Vesper - 23:07) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:08) (USS Exeter – Deck 7 Section 12 – Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald - 23:10) (USS Exeter - Deck 7 – Engineering PO – Kenny McCormick - 23:11) (USS Exeter - Deck 7 – MO, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle, MD - 23:14) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 10 Stardate: 2445.09.10 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Spa - Steam Room – CIO 3/O Lieutenant jg Jaelle Foxglove and CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 17:00) (USS Exeter - Deck 9- Holodeck – Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels & (SPC) TAC. PO3 Sytuk Ryakna-2303) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Begin Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -7 Stardate: 2445.08.26 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – SPA – Ensign JG Rylee Page – 1137) "Let's check the temperature regulators on the pools and jacuzzi's. We don't want people being burned. Better check the bubbler too. Can't have too many bubbles now," Smiling, Rylee gave him a look, “Bubbles are good. Especially to wallow in.” "Computer, simulate a drowning a person in the main pool please." Boone stated. “This should be interesting although i am not sure what you are trying to achieve here.” Suddenly, a hologramed lifeguard materialized in the pool where the computer had said there was an emergency situation. The lifeguard didn't see the emergency on the surface of the water so he dove underwater. When the lifeguard couldn't find the drowning person he resurfaced and looked at the two officers in the room. "Sorry, 'bout that. I was just test'n ya. Computer deactivate lifeguard." He turned to face her. "How's the regulators?" Looking down at her tricorder, Rylee took a brief look at the read outs. “Seems to be a slight variation. Less than 0.01%” (reply Boone) “Then, let me guess, next thing you want to do is check the temperature of the water?” (reply Boone) Laughing, Rylee shook her head. “It’s funny. Every time someone starts to talk to me they get that look on their face.” (reply Boone) “The look of them trying to figure out if my spots stop at my shoulders.” (reply Boone) “Well, Sir. That is for me to know.” She replied with a wink and walked off towards the pools thermal regulators and began to scan them. (reply Boone, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter – Deck 13, Operations Department – Ensign Boone Foster – 1139) Looking down at her tricorder, Rylee took a brief look at the read outs. “Seems to be a slight variation. Less than 0.01%” "It seems reasonable that won't harm anyone," Boone responded to the report. He smiled. “Then, let me guess, next thing you want to do is check the temperature of the water?” "Well, they should put you in charge." Boone looked at Rylee as he he began to chuckle again. Laughing, Rylee shook her head. “It’s funny. Every time someone starts to talk to me they get that look on their face.” Boone stopped laughing and cleared his throat. "I'm sorry?" he asked confused. “The look of them trying to figure out if my spots stop at my shoulders.” Boone pulled out his own tricorder and opened it. The device began scanning with audible beeps. "I don't know if you know, but I'm from a planet that doesn't get many visitors. And the visitors we do get must follow certain rules to be allowed to walk among the people, such as their clothing. I've met a couple of Trill in the Academy, but I've very curious. I'm sorry if..." He punched a few buttons on the tricorder. He gestured toward the room as a whole. "It seems all okay to me. I'll head back and let you finish." Boone turned to leave, but as the door swooshed open he turned to face Rylee again. He couldn't resist his inquisitiveness, "So, do they, the spots?" “Well, Sir. That is for me to know.” She replied with a wink and walked off towards the pools thermal regulators and began to scan them. Boone chuckled, and left the Operations Officer to do her job. (reply none) (posted by Calvin Capps) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – aCoS Ens. (SG) Paul Sleeford - 1140) Laying on the biobed while the small medical team moved around him Sleeford took a deep breath and closed his eyes, listening to the back and forth between the medics and the CMO. "Doctor, do you need a higher resolution? There's a lot of scar tissue." “Magnify on section five alpha for me, switch to a detailed mode. Actually, it would help if you could grab that extra imaginer so we can see both sides.” (Reply Wakeman) “Ensign Sleeford, when exactly do you use a stick?” Opening his eyes Sleeford rolled his head to look at the CMO, “After periods of extreme physical endurance, standing for extended periods of time, although less and less over the last six months.” “roll your hips for me please” Laying on the bed rolling hips over and over Sleeford felt a little foolish. He knew that there was something not quite right and hoped that it could be sorted before the ship launched. “So doc, what’s the verdict?” (Reply Vesper) (Posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – Med Intern aEns(jg) Lana Wakeman- 1141) Laying on the biobed while the small medical team moved around him Sleeford took a deep breath and closed his eyes, listening to the back and forth between the medics and the CMO. "Doctor, do you need a higher resolution? There's a lot of scar tissue." “Magnify on section five alpha for me, switch to a detailed mode. Actually, it would help if you could grab that extra imaginer so we can see both sides.” She passed over the equipment that Vesper had requested, and then made the alterations to the area that he requested. “Altering as requested. Including a filter for doppler osmotic threshholds.” Lana looked at the image as it flickered to allow the new channels. Silently, she thanked the day that she had stepped into Staff Matron Callie Weston’s class back on day one of her nursing training. Callie had been a titan in SFMHQ, a bastion of knowledge. Though never having children of her own, she took everyone under her wing, and in her special, non-conformist way, had bred a generation of nurses that could actually think, and not follow blind doctrine. Lana had cried for the entire day of her funeral. Lana took a back seat for the rest of Ensign Sleeford’s medical, following requests as they were given. (Reply none) (Posted by Mark(spc)) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1142) “So doc, what’s the verdict?” "I need to run this past your notes when i get into the office but given the damage we need to do somthing. Have you ever had surgery? (Reply Sleeford) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – aCoS Ens. (SG) Paul Sleeford - 1143) Laying on the bed Sleeford tried to keep still while the CMO mauled him around, twisting his hips left and right, gritting his teeth to hold back the sharp pain as the left hip was pushed too far Sleeford let out a slow breath. “So doc, what’s the verdict?” "I need to run this past your notes when I get into the office but given the damage we need to do something. Have you ever had surgery? Sitting up slightly Sleeford looked at Vespers, “Yes, after the fall, I had some surgery, to repair the pelvis, they did what they could, the hip I think the just patched up and hoped for the best. I’ll leave it to your judgement Doctor about what needs done, I just want to be able to function as a full member of the crew” (Reply Vespers) (posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1144) Sitting up slightly Sleeford looked at Vespers, “Yes, after the fall, I had some surgery, to repair the pelvis, they did what they could, the hip I think the just patched up and hoped for the best. I’ll leave it to your judgement Doctor about what needs done, I just want to be able to function as a full member of the crew” “You will Ensign, I’ll make sure of it. For now though I will speak to your department head and ensure you have the time to recover when you need it. Im sorry but I’m going to ask that for the next ten days, youre placed on restricted duties. Just until I can work out what to do. Ill come back to you soon with a treatment plan. You can get dressed and go back to duty now Ensign.” Gabe allowed the man to leave, he turned to go back to his office but fell over the large container that had just been dropped on the floor behind him. “Oh for the sake of the Prophets watch where you're putting that stuff crewman!” (Reply NON) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2O/CEO - Lieutenant Keira Merek & Engineering Intern - Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 1640) Keira had spotted the obviously excited young lady on approach but allowed her to gather the courage to approach. She was not disappointed. "Lady Lt. Merek, I would be Acting Ensign Rissa Williams, your Engineering Cadet Intern. You are amazing." Hero worship in her voice, "and I hope I can be just like you one day." Her skin changed from pearlescent to a fuller sheen for the briefest of moments. "I look forward to learning from you." "Awww." Keira said, not sure of what to say to the adorable young woman in front of her, "If I do my job right, I should be learning from you too." Her dark green eyes widened a moment, as if she could not believe this woman was being so nice to her. "The Commander said that he would set up the academic parts to make sure that all the benching marks are reached, Lady Lt. He wanted me to talk with you also." She was earnest. "Is there some where you want me?" "I'm going to base that off of you, Acting Ensign. Did you have any parts of Engineering you were particularly proficient at?" She asked calmly. Rissa looked around her at the bustling people and spoke submissively, deferentially, "If it would please the Lady Lt, where might we speak privately?" Her cadence changed as it always did when her fleeting courage fled. "Certainly." She said evenly. "My office is this way." On entering, held her hand out gesturing toward the chair situated facing her desk. Once they were in her office, Rissa stayed standing until it was indicated that she was allowed to sit. "Lady Lt, I do not mean to draw attention to the Clan connection, my Clan Sib has lectured me on the differences between the titles he bears and my nesting mate, the medical intern will be assisting me. But the man who did most of the design and upgrade work, is my foster father, the Clan Master. Instead of sending me to school they taught me at home." The expression of fierce concentration on her face showed how hard she was trying to make her words align. "He taught me using this ship's design specs but as she was when his project was shut down. The Academy helped with a more well rounded engineering education. And you asked what in particular I am best at? It be tinkering and repairs, a Williams Clan skill. But m'worst is warp field equations and flow dynamics." She was shaking by the time she reached the end of her words. There were moments where her accent hit the rough freighter tongue. Keira waited a moment to process the word-flood issued forth from this younger female. "I did catch the name." She admitted. "In all the time I've known Tri… I mean the Skipper, a lesson he learned early on, is placing duty first. He is also a superb judge of a person's character. He trusts you to be able to do this, or you wouldn't be here." She nodded reluctantly to what Keira said, "I do hope to bring honor to the Clan by being here." "Secondly, you can use the same line of logic, if he did not trust me with you, someone of his "clan", his family, you also would not be here." Her eyes widened and she relaxed. "Yes Lady Lt." "As for the specs. If you know the old specs well, we've updated some of the systems. We have an Isomagnetic EPS grid, for instance. The shields were also vastly improved. Testing has shown it can take a Mark X photon torpedo, and recharge back to full in 28 seconds." She said humble-bragging a little. "The Clan Master had hoped to do so, but could not get the equations to work. I does not know much about the new vulcan drive, it was considered to be a secret and well, I am pretty interested even though I am not great at them." She grinned. "Though I really hope we do not need to use that skill. Although I know we will." "I agree, let's not test that one practically," she said, "and I don't know that much about Sekal's crystal either. As this vessel is not equipped with it." She was very surprised by that and her expression must have showed. " The way Vice Admiral jav Pros put it, we have no idea the long term effects of such a breakthrough. Centuries ago when warp drive was discovered we had no idea the damage it was causing in subspace. They had to impose a warp speed limit to minimize the damage until they figured out some years later how to solve the problem and what we were actually doing to our universe. It took them some 200 years to find out. One or two Vulcans can't find out all the possibilities in a little over a year. I'm sure that last part was so the Tellarite could start an argument with a Vulcan, but that's just my theory." "Oh. The Tellarites do like to argue." She sounded like the young girl she was. "But don't worry, we can start you on another system." Keira said. "If it is ok, can my final project be based around the crystal? I am interested and since it is not a strong point…." "Certainly. We don't have any samples, here, but if you manage to get ahold of some you can grab some of the unclaimed lab space. We have a geology lab, an exobiology lab and stellar cartography, the rest so far have not been assigned." She explained. "Lady, what will my daily or weekly schedule look like? And am I allowed to attend any of the recreational opportunities available for the ensigns? I never really had any friends, Being just too different and all. I don't really know how to do it." She found her fingers fidgety. "I encourage you to attend any social function you want. There's the Starlight Lounge, the Nine & Dine and I think there's a coffee shop… I was slow to meet friends too. My recommendation would be do what you are interested in, and you'll meet people with similar interests." She said trying to calm the younger officer's nerves. She smiled at that, her mind already on the other issues - like where would she get a crystal sample to work on? She had not realized that she spoke that out loud, covering her mouth with a hand in embarrassment. “Clan Mistress often says that I have no filter. I don’t mean to not have one.” A deep blush along her neck. "Well we could have the Captain hail the Illuminar to see if they could spare some for your studies. I'm sure Commander Sekal, her Captain would be happy to part with some." Keira assured the young acting Ensign. "Especially in the interests of science." She did not know much about Sekal, but she had heard things and she was really interested in meeting him, something that might come in the future, “The scuttlebutt says we are both headed to Bajor so maybe it will not be a big deal? If the request comes through you and not me?” upShe looked slightly worried. "Your schedule. Right, what do you want it to be? You can choose any of the three 8 hour shifts." Then she corrected herself, "Really 9 hour shift, as we have a 30 overlap on each side to ensure a good solid hand off from the previous shift." "Alpha, Beta or Gamma?" “It would be best for me to take the least popular shift, Gamma. I think my study schedule says that I have to spend a certain amount of time in the holodeck on various coursework. Supposed to meet with my Cla…..ah the Captain to see about that in the near future. Lady Lt, where you this scared when you got to Mars?” Her hero worship was showing again, nothing but working with Keira would dull that, and it was normal for a young woman to fixate on another more successful woman at this stage of her life in order to grow. "Gamma it is then." She said and made a note on a PADD, also adding another note about a request through the captain to get some A-crystal either through the Illuminar, Mars or some other source. "As for when I first got to Mars…. I don't know. There were a lot more Engineers then. I was struggling to find my place, certainly. Trying to stand out, to excel." She explained further. " At least two Engineers I was competing with had well known family backgrounds in Engineering. I thought at best I would get assistant to one of them. All of them either transferred departments or got assignments to other duty stations. I hope I answered your question. “Do family names mean that much in the human culture that dominates starfleet? The Clan Master said that without a name that I would be at a disadvantage, but I was surprised when he gave me his. Clan Master Admiral Williams says that hard work are more important than who your clan is. I saw people in the Academy lose their spot because they didn’t have anyone in their back?” She frowned as if trying to get the expression correct. "Having a prestigious family can open doors, or give you opportunities. When an instructor or superior officer had worked with a family member and it had left a positive impression," she explained," but you should be able to get where you're going on your own merits. My mother served in the fleet, but her name didn't make it into the history books Evasdottir isn't one of those prestigious names. My clan name Merek is Romulan. I'm told my grandfather was a senator. I'm sure if some alternative form of me had made it into the Star Empire, that would have opened some doors for me. I didn't have that advantage, and here I am. I think Admiral Williams is a wise man. Knowing him may have gotten you this specific ship, but you couldn't have qualified for this program if your academic marks weren't up to speed." "Hey, aren't you on Gamma shift?" She asked. “Yes, Lady Lt. I can make my shift tonight but it does not start yet. Whom may I report to?" "That's right you're early. CPO Daniels can fill you in on Gamma Shift procedure at 2330, main Engineering." “Yes, Lady Lt. I will make your Clan proud as well.” She smiled a bit. "I'm sure you will." Keira smiled back. "Now go get some rest. Midnight will be on you before you know it." (Reply none) (Posted by Todd and Mel SPC (Rissa Williams)) (USS Exeter – Counsellors office – CMO / Couns - Ens Gabe Vesper / Ens Jester Lavorre – 1800) Gabe pressed the buzzer to wait for entry to the office, he was bang on time and hoped to get a few things off his chest before the Exeter left spacedock, The office still wasn’t exactly in fighting shape, but it was good enough to receive the Chief Medical Officer for his first session. Excited about getting back to seeing patients and getting to know Mr Vesper, Jester was wired with energy as she flitted around the office preparing. The buzzer sounded and the door after a second of waiting opened automatically to allow entry to Gabe. “Gabe. Right on time! Prompt and I like that!” she swiftly moved over to the desk. “Would you prefer to sit here, or over in the corner?” she pointed to two large squishy arm chairs. Taken back by the openness and the choice of seats he stood "wherever you feel is appropriate?" “Why don’t we try out the armchairs then? Everyone always wants to sit at the desk and feel “official.” Gabe followed the lead of the Orion. He was unsure really what to expect from the session. Getting comfy, she squished into the chair, pulled her legs up and sat in the middle of the seat. “So, you said you wanted a meeting earlier today. Do you want to start us off? I’m sure whatever you wanted to talk about is going to be superb?” ~stop smiling so much~ "well, I guess I need to just get a few things off my chest. About a year ago I found out that I had a sister I didn't know about, my whole world changed and now she's my boss and here I am the CMO. Some small town bloke now in charge of the health of all these people and working for my sister who didn't exist” Gabe shifted a little uneasy. "I'm so used to being just me and now I have all this to deal with" “Well that IS somewhat of a dramatic change in your circumstance. You’re talking about the First Officer, correct?” “Yeh, Alynn.” “Interesting… sorry I probably sound dispassionate.” she laughed a little, “siblings are one thing I find intriguing- having never had one myself. I cannot even fathom how I would react to finding out I had one now, this late in life and never had the chance to know them before now.... How did you react?” Gabe laughed a little, “at first, I yelled, a lot. We clashed in sickbay over the stories of our parents. Then she kept telling me I needed to ask my godmother something, in the end I ended up storming into her quarters to confront her. We’re getting on better now I think.” “So she knew before you found out?” “We have a joint party, my godmother is her family friend. After our bust up in Sickbay she went to her and found out. Nobody thought to tell me right away. I would have preferred to have been in on the secret rather than walking around talking to someone who knew they were my sister.” “That must have been somewhat frustrating. But it sounds like she had a… reasonable reason to not say anything.” she said brightly. “How long have you been a Doctor?” “It was and as much as I like having a sister, it makes me question how much I can trust people now.” Gabe shifted uncomfortably. “I’ve been a doctor for two years now, well a Starfleet one anyway. Came out of the academy and was sent to work on a freighter then when Mars was being set up moved across. It wasn't my calling.” “How did you get into Medicine?” “My mother's side is Engineering, it's all I’ve known but an Uncle who works for Medical pressured me to work in medicine. Turns out all of my Dads family were medics so there we go.” “Huh Nice. So you could say you're pretty qualified for your role then?” “I’ve been cleared by Starfleet to work as a doctor if that's what you mean?” Gabe was a little hesitant. “Ailynn asked for me to be CMO I believe.” “Seems like there’s no great worry about you being in charge then, el-Capitan seems to think you’re capable and you just said yourself you're an amazing doctor. Have you ever been in a leadership position before?” “Other than the School sailing team no. That's what scares me” “Experience is Experience is Experience.” Jester pointed out with a flash of a smile. “What I’m trying to say is that you could have all the Experience in the world being a leader and still suck. Rely on the skill you do have and then learn to rely on the skills of those around you.” “You say that but I could still suck. I'm not a people person, I hate working around people. This scenario is just painful to me. Why me, why am I CMO. You saw how Dr Poldan reacted to me today.“ “Do you have history with Doctor Poldan?” She enquired. “Never met him until now, he transferred back to Trill before I arrived, it's been a limited contact but I can't think of anything that would have caused so much anger” “Hmm,” Jester said, “Have you thought about asking him? I know it’s unusually direct, but I find heading off any potential hiccups with those you have to work with as quickly as possible as the best option. I could HELP if you like.” she said brightly with a smile. Leaning forward taking a chance and testing to see his response she placed a hand on top of his, “I know you’re not confident with the fact that you’re clearly going to ROCK this job hard, how about you take the fact that others clearly see within you, what you do not at the moment. Focus on the Medical side, show your colleagues how qualified you are and the leadership values will follow.” “As it happens I have a dinner to go to with him, it was supposed to be a planning session with my number two, but it now feels like a boxing match.” Now very conscious of the Orions' proximity to him and the fact her hand was on his Gabe looked at her eyes. “Is there anything else you feel I would ROCK, counsellor?” He said placing his hand slightly closer to hers but not on. She allowed the contact for another beat and then moved slowly away, careful not to portray it as a refusal and then said, “I’m sure there are many… things you would rock at Doctor” and winked. Relaxing back into the chair and shifting her hair back behind her shoulder with a hand, “Let me tell you how I would begin your meeting with Doctor Poldan. I’d sit down and before going into anything department wise, I would ask if there is anything you can do for the Doctor. Either in aid of his career or personal life. Show him that you’re there to help and with that sorted hopefully he sees that helping you, will also help him. Thoughts?” Taken back by the response Gabe now wondered if he misread the situation, but the wink was clear. “It makes perfect sense I guess. If only there was a peer around that could...help...me with my career. Do you have a habit of holding the hands of all your patients' counsellor?” The question hung in silence for a good thirty seconds as she wondered in her head whether she’d made a mis-step so early on in her career on the Exeter. Was this a test? She decided what little she knew of Gabe that it probably wasn’t. “Sometimes.” she responded playfully. “I find that skin-to-skin contact is useful. The old saying, ‘I don’t need therapy, I just need a hug.’ resonates with me heavily. Reassuring.” she flustered a little, looking for words that would make some sense in the situation. “So..” trying to regain some professionalism, “I will of course help you as much as I can, but it seems that you’re doing pretty well on your own on the career front… Chief Medical Officer on a brand new shiny starship. Er. How is your personal life? Got the right balance between work and… fun?” “I understand there is to be a balance, apparently you have to..stay on top...of the situation before it gets overwhelming, or on top of you” Gabe was responding to the flustered look from Jester. He slid to the end of the chair a little, closing the gap between them. “I hear it can be particularly hard to juggle a work life balance, sometimes it's considered great relief to offer a helping hand.” Looking towards the ceiling and then back down to his face, she made an over the top reaction of rolling her eyes at his comment, leaned forward and put her hand in his. “Feels good, yes? Though I’m not sure that line would work in any situation outside of this room, Mister. Please don’t go and try it at the bar tonight, I’m afraid you’ll get a drink thrown in your face.” and she laughed. “I don’t suppose it has to be outside of this room, I know a few things that feel better” Gabe held her hand tightly and pulled her towards him. “Very ...helpful... counselling session” he leant forward and kissed the woman. ~Well this did not go as expected~ she thought to herself as she allowed the kiss to happen. Oddly this wasn’t the first time she’d been kissed during an initial counselling session. Even though Starfleet ships and facilities filtered out the pheromones that her body naturally produced, being so close during a session sometimes had this effect. She’d learnt in the past that immediately breaking off and refusing the approach would be mentally harder and more embarrassing for both parties. ~He’s not terrible looking either~ she mused to herself. After a moment they separated and Jester retreated back deep into the seat, “Well, what a kiss. You’ve got some skills in that department Doctor.” She smiles gently, “thank-you for that gift!” "It's me that should be thanking you Counselor." Gabe said sitting back slightly in his seat. “It’s certainly not my most professional moment I’ve ever had in my office,” she joked, “but it’s my no means the only time I’ve been kissed during a session.” Laughing a little. “You will obviously be aware of Orion female pheromones, they’re not usually an issue on Starfleet ships. I’d hazard a guess you’re naturally more susceptible to them and that’s why you feel the way you do.” "Oh I don't think it is, I felt it in sickbay. You had too, that instant connection." Gabe ignored the feeling in his head and focused on the woman's eyes. "You can't deny it" She looked at him, “Give it a week, see what you think and feel. If you still want to, I’d not be opposed to meeting in a less professional environment.” and she winked. "I think that would be a wonderful idea, I suppose I should get back to work. Thank you for such a wonderful session" Gabe grinned. “Of course.” Jester said as she stood up, “If you need anything Doctor, don’t hesitate. AND remember, if you suck at it, suck at it with flare until you figure it out.” she winked and then turned around to reset the seating arrangements. (Reply none) (Posted by Mat & Jono - Jester Lavorre) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -6 Stardate: 2445.08.27 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Deck 8, Main Tactical Briefing Room - Ensign JG Greta Smith - 0907) "Greta! That is absolutely fantastic news!" She smiled from ear to ear. "Why were you so nervous to share? Is there some kind of security risk I should be aware of?" Smiling, Greta shook her head, “Security risk? From Ire? No not at all. I just… i have seen secrets eat people up here and that isn’t going to happen to me.” (Reply Dareshaa) “Oh it’s not happening yet. I suspect…. Well i would hope maybe if we ever make it back to Mars. It was where we first… realised we liked each other so it seems fitting somehow.” (Reply Dareshaa) “Anyway, i should go about my duties Ma’am.” (Reply Dareshaa, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Deck 8, Main Tactical Briefing Room - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 0909) The conversation between the Chief Tactical Officer and one of her tactical officers continued as Dareshaa wondered about the security risk of Greta's new finance, Ire. Smiling, Greta shook her head, “Security risk? From Ire? No not at all. I just… i have seen secrets eat people up here and that isn’t going to happen to me.” "Very well," Dareshaa's mood changing once again to happiness for Ensign Smith. "Do you plan on having the wedding here, on the ship?" “Oh it’s not happening yet. I suspect…. Well i would hope maybe if we ever make it back to Mars. It was where we first… realized we liked each other so it seems fitting somehow.” Dareshaa smiled and rubbed the side of Greta's shoulder as a sweet symbol. “Anyway, i should go about my duties Ma’am.” "I understand, we all have a lot of work to do. Thank you for coming to me and sharing the news." After Greta left Dareshaa turned to leave the room as well. She needed to go focus in her office. (reply none) (posted by Calvin Capps) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -2 Stardate: 2445.08.31 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Nine and Dine - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Bar Manager Caity DuBois 2220) Ailynn walked into the bar, tired, aching, and not for the first time this week, unable to pinpoint the last time she ate properly. She’d been in here before a couple of times this last few days, but each time she’d been in deep conversation with someone, and if Ailynn had a fault, it was she had a tendency to get focussed on something, and not always notice everything else that was going on around her. The bar, was simply gorgeous. Bringing back to mind numerous establishments that she had frequented back on Earth. She stepped up and took a seat at the bar, and glanced around there were a few people in here, and the bar was being tended by a sandy haired female that she hadn’t seen before. Looking down the bar, Caity spotted the new arrival. ~kind of cute but bad mood alert.~ she thought to herself as she walked over, "Welcome to the Nine and dine. What can I get you?" Ailynn barely flicked her attention up from the PADD that she had brought with her, “Red wine and a steak sandwich.” she half snapped. The words were out her mouth before her brain engaged. Biting her lip, Caity knew that the reply was sharp and not really directed at her. Having worked in bars most of her adult life, she has seen all aspects of people. A good reader of the human condition was almost a prerequisite for bar staff and she knew that the sharpness was not towards her. The woman infront of her was tired, exhausted even and, taking a second, Caity smiled and said, "You know you catch more flies with honey and not vinegar." Ailynn grimaced at herself. “Please…” She asked “Can I try that again...that was sooo rude of me." "Hey look, it's okay. Let's start again shall we? Caity. Caity Dubois, manager of the nine and dine." Ailynn smiled, pleased that the woman in front of her hadn’t taken offense. “Pleased to meet you Caity.” Ailynn held out a hand, her long delicate surgeon's fingers cool. “Ailynn Bracken. First Officer for my sins.” Taking her hand, she shook it firmly, "why do I feel I should address you as Ma'am?" Caity responded with a smile. Ailynn smiled, “you address me as Ma’am, and I turn round looking for my Mother, the Admiral.” She answered her head still hurting, but her tiresome mood calming. “Ailynn. I insist.” Reaching for a glass, Caity began pouring the wine she had requested, "Okay, Ailynn, how do you like your steak?" “Mid rare, thank you.” Ailynn answered, accepting the drink. “Look, about before…” She sniffed the wine, and nodding appreciatively, took a sip and placed the glass down. "Look, you don't need to apologise. I'm a big girl. Kind of have to be running bars around Starfleet establishments. Trust me, that was not the worst thing anyone has ever said to me. In fact, probably one of the more pleasant introductions." Wiping the bar nearby, she continued, "So, you don't have the stature of the normal command types… You look more… hmm how to put this…." Ailynn’s face lit up… “Don’t tell me...I like this game...ermm...taller...clean shaven…” Laughing a little, Caity nodded, "that's it exactly. There's no five day growth on your chin. " Reaching behind her, she grabbed the sandwich that had appeared and handed it to Ailynn. "Hope you like it. My family's secret recipe." “It smells amazing,” She said, taking a bite. “Mmf.” she covered her mouth as she chewed and swallowed. “That’s gooood. Mind if I eat while we talk?” "Not at all, if you don't mind me working whilst we talk?" “So yeah...First command posting, I’m a surgeon by trade, the best I might add, but an opportunity came up that I couldn’t say no to." "That's it. I knew there was something…. Not typical command about you." She looked at Ailynn for a moment. “I’ll take that as a compliment. My family has a habit of not being typical at anything.” "Sounds like mine. My Uncle runs the bar on Mars. He told me about this posting. The chance to see the stars and do what I love… how could i resist? But, it was meant as a compliment. Most command types have an arrogance about them. A cockiness if you will. I don't see that from you." Ailynn smiled, swallowing more sandwich. “Put me in an Operating Theatre and scrubs and I am an overintense bitch from hell, but normal me is...well, not what walked into the bar. It’s been an intense week. Just like finals week.” "I get that. You would not believe the range of emotions that a bar manager sees during finals week." She replied with a smile. "But there is a difference between being intense and being cocky. Intense is more .. you know what you are doing and are focused. Cocky, well to me, is being an ass. It's thinking you know what is best rather than actually knowing of that makes sense." Ailynn nodded. “Makes perfect sense. I’ve known a few cocky ones that didn’t have a clue what they were doing, and where medicine was concerned, I had my mother's lack of tact. Mouth - brain filter doesn’t always work well, especially if hungry and tired.” She held out a self-depreciating hand. "Ah …. So that before was hangry Ailynn then?" Caity winked and continued, "How's the sandwich? I ask because you look like you haven't eaten anything proper all day." She blushed, all too aware of her faults. “Yeah...busted. The sandwich is amazing. You sound like my gran.” she tilted her head in mock irritation. "I've been called many things but Gran? That's a first. " she replied with a smile. Feeling the mood lightening, Caity grabbed a few empty glasses and put them away below the bar, "I assume that was a compliment?" Ailynn nodded, “The highest. She moans at me when I don’t eat either. She’s an Admiral too though so her moaning is like a command or something.” "That sounds familiar. So, are all your family in the fleet?" “Like I said. Funny family. You’ll have met my aunt by now?” Ailynn said cryptically. "Your aunt? Maybe… met many people in this bar. Heard many stories too. Most of them I think are tall tales. Especially the stories I have heard about one of the pilots." “Which one? Depending on the pilot those are probably true.” She said laughing. "Is it… Ire? The one with the unfortunate nickname. The guy who was in here earlier, having what looked like celebratory drinks with the Chief of Ops?" Ailynn laughed. “Yeah, most of those are true, a bit exaggerated.” "So, who is this mysterious aunt… the only other people I have really met are the one who runs the coffee place and….." Caity stopped, suddenly realising who Ailynn meant. A flash of something close to embarrassment flew over her face as she cleared away Ailynn's plate. Seeing Caity’s reaction Ailynn smiled. “Familial resemblance eh. Ashlyn is so lovely, you’ll get on well with her.” "She's the Captain's wife I've heard?" Ailynn nodded. “She is, but don’t think that she got her post because of that. Ash is crazy good at the detail side of things. So...you mentioned family, siblings?” "My uncle. You probably know him too. Especially if you went in the Red Sands. My family is… well it's complicated. " “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to push.” Ailynn said. The word ‘complicated’ was rarely a good thing in her experience. "Hey, it's all good. My family is just a bit… different. But that's enough about me. I'm happy here in my little corner of this ship. I get to meet interesting folk and then go back to my quarters and tell Bert all about you enlisted folk." “Bert?” Ailynn looked puzzled. "Oh… no. No no… Bert… he's.. well, he's my baby." Ailynn looked at her, “Your baby?” Laughing, Caity smiled widely, "No.. he's my snake. And no, that's not a pet name for a man. I mean he's my pet. Albino python. " Ailynn smiled warmly, “You have a python called Bert. That actually wins the prize for ‘most random thing that I’ve heard this week’” Smiling, Caity poured her another glass of wine, slid it across the bar to her, "most people balk at the idea of a snake. It's something primal I think. Almost Garden of eden primal. They are so misunderstood. Kind of like Bar managers. " she paused for a second, "Tell me something, Ailynn. What has you so stressed? I can read people. Vulcans people think are hard to read but they're not. No pretence. People are hard." “Honestly?” She took a sip of her wine. “I have a massive fear of failure. I’m sure you’ll have guessed. I grew up a Fleet Brat, mum and gran both Captains, now both Admirals, my dad’s mum was the former Fleet First Officer, so i was surrounded by serious overachievement. Got to me. I got so focussed on not being an embarrassment, It became a serious worry, then a fear.” "Sounds a lot. Me, never had that family dynamic. But that's me. I'm not what you would call typical. " Ailynn tilted her head, a couple of things from the conversation nudging her mind. Tentatively, her innate curiosity nudging her, she asked gently. “That’s a couple of times you’ve said that?” She realised that her mouth had voiced what was meant to be an internal thought. “I’m so sorry, I’m such a nosy cow.” She winced. "It's okay. Conversation for another day perhaps. This is supposed to be a light hearted place, a place to forget all your troubles, forget all your cares. So, another day, when we are both not working and I can learn to not stress about leaving my bar in the hands of my staff. Then perhaps I will tell you my tale." Ailynn gave a smile-laugh gently, “Yeah I get that; and you keep throwing food at me of that quality, we’ll get on okay.” She smiled whimsically. "That's nothing. You should try my boullibase sometime. Make it from scratch. No replicator at all." Caity replied with a smile. "Ma'am, I have to ask something that's been bothering me, if that's okay?" Ailynn smiled warmly. “Ailynn...Lynn...whatever. If I’m sat here, then we can be open. I grew up a Fleet Brat with a family with serious connections. I’m….just Ailynn.” She shrugged a smile. "Haven't seen the boss in here yet. I swear he thinks I have Bert stashed in my office and am gonna surprise him." Ailynn laughed, sipping her wine. “Word to the wise. Not the moment for surprises, He’s....got a lot on his mind.” "I bet. Youngest starship captain ever I heard. Next time you see him, tell him i have a bottle of bourbon here with his name on it." “I’ll tell him. "I mean literally! It has the family name all over it." She replied with a wink “The Williams’ Bourbon. Not my taste per se...but its amongst the best.” There was a moment that she was going to keep her mouth shut, but couldn’t, looking over Caity’s left shoulder at the reds she smiled. “Soooo. How about a merlot...I think the ‘32 you have there is...well…” "It's a good one." Caity replied as she poured a glass and handed it to Ailynn. "I see this place as a … well somewhere you fleet types can come and relax. good food, good drink And conversation. I mean I know there is the coffee place but you can't beat a good pub can you?” “That you can’t.” Ailynn smiled. Saying no more, and draining her glass. “Biollabase you say...Might find me in here again...I practically grew up on Tuscan local food, but grandpops always had the something up his sleeve.” "Then I will make sure to cook up a batch and add it to the menu. " “I need to hit the hay.” She looked around her. “Nice Bar Miss DuBois.” "Just move the horse before you hit the hay." Caity cringed. "I am sorry, I have a strange sense of humour. Pleasure talking to you, Ailynn." Ailynn held up a hand as she stepped out, and gave a wave. “Get rest Caity. You are going to be busy.” she smiled as the doors closed behind her, the alcohol and good food accelerating her need to sleep. "I intend to. Once I can get these guys to go." She replied with a wink. (Reply none) (Posted by Mark and Jackie) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 1 Stardate: 2445.09.01 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay – First Officer/CMO - Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken/Ens Gabe Vesper – 1047) It had been a good start to the day. The various briefings had gone well, Gabe was pleased with how things had changed overnight. Sat working out how he was going to get through 20 medicals in one day remained unaware of the goings on around him. "Hey Bro. Is there a Doctor in the House?" Gabe jumped as his sisters voice filled the office . “Bloody hell Ailynn, knock first. Yes, there are plenty to choose from. Medical?” “‘Fraid so Doc,” Ailynn said as she walked toward him, admiring the newly kitted out sickbay. “Come on, bio bed five for you.” He said pulling on his labcoat to show it off. “Hey!” Ailynn smiled, “Check that out.” She looked at him, smiling deeply, and proudly. “That looks really good on you, honestly.” Ailynn followed Gabe toward bay 5, and lay back on the biobed when they got there. “Shame dad was a little shorter than me” Gabe laughed as he grabbed the trolly and met Ailynn at the bed. “Well...this is weird, last time I was on one of these was back on the Trill homeworld. Turns out I’m deathly allergic to some random Trill type of wheat or something.” “Yes so I see. I dont think we need to discuss that further do we?” “No.” Ailynn said, “not really.” “Lets keep this professional, any concerns, issues changes since your last medical? Or rather the last time you were in sickbay?” She shook her head. “No concerns,” She half smiled. “Nothing physical.” “We have a few things we need to get through and then to the bloods” Gabe walked around his sister with the tricorder checking things. “Look...Mum...the Admiral said that the bloods weren’t necessary, it was something that had been said in a moment of anger...but…” “You want them done as a matter of point anyway?” Ailynn sighed, and looked up at him. “I did, but now, lets just do the medical, you have far too much to worry about than my whim.” “Youre here, I can do the bloods. You know as much as I do its just letting the computer do the work. I dont even need to tell you the results. Your body has suffered as a result of your past and recent events. We do need to keep you fighting fit. I dont have reason to conduct a blood test, I’ve not been ordered to do one; but im happy to.” Ailynn shook her head. “It’s all good. You’ll find them all negative anyway...it was the anger of a moment. Just the medical, thanks Doc.” “In that case youre cleared for duty and ill update your file to show we have discussed the bloods and that you no longer need to submit yourself for testing. Please dont let me down” Ailynn nodded. “I won’t.” She paused, something flitting across her mind, something her mother, she knew, always worried about, but Ailynn had always dismissed. “No problems with my heart…?” A library of unspoken questions accompanied the simple request. “Nothing to report, but we will need to monitor it, damn our Bajoran make up. Although im always surprised why I dont have the defect.” Gabe knew instantly that defect was the wrong word Ailynn nodded, trading a serious look with Gabe for a moment. “It worries mum.” She traded a deep emotive look with her brother, and smiled gently, before pulling herself together. “Thanks Doc.” “It wouldn't be normal if she didn't worry. Ill file the reports.” Gabe allowed Ailynn to leave and went back to his work. (Reply None) (Posted by Mark & Mat (USS Exeter - Geology Lab – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 11:03) Adala had just turned to the neighboring console when a comm came from the bridge. " Ensign Michaels, nicely done. Unfortunately we can't obtain samples at the present time. As I have not been given clearance to drop out of warp. But perhaps on our return trip we could collect the desired samples. ” She let out a sigh but compose her irritation, wanting those samples. “Understood Lieutenant.” She said after tapping the comm. Adala glanced at the small blue rock which graced her desk. It was one of many rocks which were scattered around her personal area. Rocks were her thing. This was the one area she really felt alive. (Reply:None) (Written by Kathleen) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - ACMO ensign Kasian Poldan –1359) "Doctor, can I ask something?" She asked “Of course” Kasian "I wake up at night. Doesn't sound like much I know but every night for the last few months, I wake up. Around 3am to 4...," “Okay we can look into that.” Kaz said ready to explain more on this. "I know why, I just would like a good nights sleep." “I can give you something to help you sleep, but it isn’t something I’d like to keep you on long term. So together we can look into alternative solutions.” Kaz said he Harare’s giving people long term meds when there where other ways of treating some things. (Reply Cortez) (Posted by Richard) (USS Exeter - Bean me up – Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels & Intern Acting Ensign Rissa Williams - 17:00) Adala had just gotten finished with her physical. It had gone as expected and she needed time to breath and take a break. She stepped into the Bean me up and headed for the barista. She got herself a Raktajino and moved to a table in the corner where she could see the door. She pulled the padd from her pocket and began to scan the information on it. A nervous Rissa entered and looked around. The green skinned Tiburonian woman-girl had that nervous smile on her face, the one that did not quite reach her eyes. She had studies that she needed to do and one of those was a science credit. She had heard that Adala Michaels was a geologist, and so she wanted to meet up with her. The computer had directed her here. The place smelled exquisite of fine teas and hand ground coffees, the wonderful spice of baking and the sweetness of sugar. Looking around there was only one person who fit the description the computer had given her. So she moved over to her, “Ah, be you Lady Ensign Adala Michaels?” She asked nervously, no drink in her hand, just the fear in her voice. Adala had been lost in thought when the young girl came up to her and spoke. “Yes, I am Adala Michaels, Is there something I can help you with?” She motioned to the chair across from her. “Get something to drink and join me?” Rissa nodded, and turned on one foot and headed to the bar. She was supposed to get a drink. She chose a hot chocolate with extra whipped cream and sprinkles. She was handed a small chocolate cake as well. She returned to the table and stood beside Adala. “I have returned?” She is still nervous but the smell of the chocolate is calming to her. “May I sit? And be you know who I am?” Adala shook her head. “No I don’t but you know me. What can I help you with?” she motioned for the young woman to have a seat. “Have a seat.” The green skinned Tiburonian girl took the offered seat, setting down her cup of sugar, “I am acting ensign Rissa Williams of the Engineers. I be a fourth year cadet who is interning here to learn. Part of my academic requirements is that I have a main project and another part is that I am required to study with a scientist. I do not have very good scientific skills, and I have… fluked?” She bit her lower lip in thought. “I have fluked my lab. Clan Master Williams, who also is Dean Admiral said that I should study with a scientist. His word is the law, both as the head of my Clan and as the one who is in charge of my schooling.” The young girl was obviously nervous. Adala listened as the girl spoke and nodded. “You are looking for a mentor and teacher then?” A nervous nod, “I guess, Lady Ensign. I be not skilled at sciences.” She sipped her hot chocolate, and nibbled on the food that she was given. She smiled and placed a hand on the girls. “I am willing to help you with your studies and anything else you need to learn.” Rissa jumped at the casual touch but kept her hand in place, “Th-thank you Lady Ensign. I has to be on the gamma shift, so when would be bestest to attend you for studies?” She talked at times in normal basic but when she got truly nervous she lapsed into the incorrect language. “I be also sharing the cabin with medicals intern and must arrange schedule so that we can study together. She must also study too.” “It will be no imposition, for you to help my Lana roommate to make science studies too?” Adala listened to the girl as she spoke and frowned. “I will have to bring this up to Lieutenant Cortez and ask her opinion before I can say yes to anything.” “I desire to study the Andulurian crystal, the one that powers the Illuminar and the Republic. I desire to learn all about it, and what other properties it might have. I wish to one day be the chief engineer of a ship that runs it.” She sounded proud for once rather than the everpresent nervous and scared. “I am sorry, I can’t help you with that. I don’t know anything about that crystal.” She was about to reply when her comm blipped. “Ensign, you’re needed in the labs.” Came the voice of one of the lab techs she’d left categorizing rocks in the geology lab. Rissa blinked as the woman’s comm badge went off. “Oh. I am sorry I intruded. Thank you for your help if you can and I… I look forward to hearings from you.” Rissa felt like she had done something wrong, but she supposed that it was only her enthusiasm. She tended to run away with her thoughts. “Forgive me?” She hoped that it was the correct way to apologize. “I have to go into my rest cycle. Thank you for your help.” She spoke again before almost running away. (reply None) (posted by Kathleen and Mel (spc)) (USS Exeter - Counselor Office - COUNS, Ens(sg) Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre and 3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove - 1819) Now let me ask you this. "What do you think my greatest secret is?" Jaelle asked as she eyed the counselor. Putting her hands together she took a moment to pretend to look Jaelle up and down, "I'm not a mind reader you know." she said with a half-smile, "I'd hesitate to say you expect your biggest secret to be something horribly dark that you've done in your past." there was a pause, "but I imagine your "greatest" making air quotes with her fingers, "is that beneath it all you're looking for acceptance and a family of people that you can rely on. Something perhaps you can find on this ship, that you wouldn't have been able to if you took a position at SFI HQ." She was perceptive Jaelle had to admit. "Your close not right but close." Jaelle never had plans to stay close to SFI HQ. The opportunity to be out in deep space gave her a chance to be herself away from prying eyes. A chance to be for lack of a better word free. "Here's a question, for you." Jaelle spoke getting to the crux of the situation. "Why should I open up to you, Tell you whats weighing on my mind and my heart?" For Jaelle this question needed to be answered somewhere inside her was a voice begging for her to let someone in. “Let’s be honest Jaelle. There is absolutely no reason that you must open up to me.” She shrugged, “You’re not mandate to be here on a regular basis and unless the Captain orders you too, we may never have to speak again if you so wish. Though the fact that you’re asking the questions lends to the fact that you clearly want to talk to someone.” Pausing for another moment and taking a sip of a drink through a bright pink straw. “It doesn’t have to be me, but one of the benefits of talking to me would be the patient/doctor privilege that you wouldn’t enjoy by simply talking to the bartender.” she winked and grinned. "That’s true." She took a moment to think about it, things were happening in her life. It was almost overwhelming. "I will be honest I don't like counselors or anyone who tries to analyze my life. But I know I need to try." “No analyzing then. I’m not great at that anyway” she said with a laugh, “Just someone to talk to, I can do that easily. How about you start easy and just tell me what’s on your mind?” "That’s just it." She shook her head. "My mind is a mess. After I left the Federation I swore never again to venture into the darkness of space. Everything about being out here screams wrong in my mind but it feels right in my heart." “You’ll have to tell me a few stories of your first time around in the Federation at some point Jaelle. Why are you venturing forth then if everything about it tells you it’s the wrong thing to do?” "My first mission I had no idea what I was getting into, or what I even was." She sighed. "Even in that first mission I was poisoned and nearly died. Next came the borg, and in that fight for life I learned the true horrors of what I was. But in that mission what I learned about myself allowed me to survive. Again, I came close to dying. I guess me going to deep space normally ends with a loss of life or with me coming close to death. I don’t want to do that dance anymore." She spoke starting to open up. Jesters carefree attitude catching Jaelle slightly off guard. Understanding and seeing that this was progress for one such as Jaelle she decided to try and keep the conversation moving, but not diving too much deeper. “Well then it seems perfectly reasonable that heading back into deep space would set off a level of anxiety you might not be used too. I imagine in your work, controlling your emotions, feelings and heart rate is something you’d be in full control of?” "At one time I was ordered to learn vulcan meditation techniques to control my emotions to keep them going out of control." “So perhaps we need you to relearn something all children across the Universe learn very quickly- not everything is controllable. You cannot control if you lose someone on this mission, all you can do is your best to stop that happening.” She remembered something told to her in a dream dark words burned into her mind and heart. As she spoke she noticed her voice change as Lily creapt into he mind. "The blood of thousands have been laid upon my alter…" she let her voice trail off taking a moment to keep her alternate persona from taking hold those were her words. Spoken when she first learned what she was. "I’m not worried about losing someone I care for Ill die before I let that happen. I'm afraid of losing myself." As Jaelles tone began shifting she began to sit straight up in her chair. What had begun as a jovial first session with a patient Jester was now starting to understand the intricacies and depth of the issues the woman… women? that sat in front of her had. ~Multiple personalities? ~ There had been a fair amount of redacted information in the Intelligence Officers file and she was beginning to see why. “Well, that will NOT be happening if I have anything to say about it.” She smiled a kind, warm and inviting sort of smile. “Jaelle I appreciate your honesty so far.” Saying it slowly to help portray the sincereness of what she was saying. “This is going to be a long road for you, there are no quick fixes for what was done to you in the past. I promise you though, that I am here and willing to listen and help as much as I can.” She smiled; it was hard to do so but she wanted something bigger in her life. "If I want my greatest secret to come to reality then it’s a road I must go down." “Good. Then we can begin to work together on this. If you have time now, how about you tell me about this other… person you have inside of you?” Jaelle sighed. ~This will be good for us.~ Jaelle thought to herself. "She's an assassin by the name of Belladonna Lily or Lily for short." “and you have control over Lily, or does she have the ability to take over with no notice?” "It used to be easier for her to take control. Or if the right tiggers were applied. Now do to events its harder. But personalities have merged for the most part. I do things that she takes interest in and in that I mean singing, and she steps back. Now in fights, when I feel overwhelmed, or for heaven’s sake I get knocked unconscious it is easier for her to take control. But I normally notice when she begins to enter my mind." “Well,” Jester began. This was entirely outside of her normal scope within these first meetings. “This is certainly something to work with and on Jaelle. I’m going to ask you return weekly to begin with, just for a chat.” It seemed it would fall to their sessions for her to discern whether the murder-fairy was taking over without Jaelle knowing. She would be looking for blackouts, loss of memory and hopefully a way of keeping Lily under control. "Makes sense. I will make it a point to drop by weekly then." Jaelle nodded she knew this was something that would take time. Most counselors wouldn't even want to touch this, and due to the position of the person who did this to her she was commonly able to shift these type of reports and test to places where Jaelle didn't have to worry how it would affect her being able to report to duty. However, It meant that these meeting prior didn't hold much in the way of actual help and assistance with her trauma. “WELL. That is excellent Jaelle. I’ll have my assistant carve out some space for you weekly.” She paused, “This is GOOD.” Looking directly into the woman’s eyes. “Don’t worry, we have this handled.” And Jester winked, smiled and blew a raspberry before turning around. She stood to leave more conflicted than when she first came in. She left the room to continue her daily duties. (Reply none) (Posted by Mathew Locke & Jono Bradley – Jester Lavorre) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez –1401) "I can give you something to help you sleep, but it isn’t something I’d like to keep you on long term. So together we can look into alternative solutions." Nodding, Erin sighed, "I've been through a lot. Meditation helps me but a good night's sleep would too." (Reply Poldan) "I suppose so. Maybe this is something we can discuss at another time. Right now I have a department of people waiting for me to give them orders." She replied with a smile. (Reply Poldan) "Definitely. Thank You doctor." She replied as she jumped off the biobed. (Reply Poldan, any) (Posted by Jackie) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.02 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay – ACMO– Ensign Kasian Poldan– 0856) .“Lieutenant Merek, here for my medical appointment.” “Kasian could tell the Lieutenant was less than excited about the medical, honestly he could relate he had spent so much time in the hospital as a patient that he didn’t even want to be here anymore. “Good morning Lieutenant I’m doctor Kasian Poldan. It’s way too early for this kind of medical crap in my opinion, but we must, even if it’s just to keep the Captain off our backs right..” Kaz noticed at the moment he wasn’t funny at all. (Reply Merek) “I’ll try and get you out of here pretty fast.” Kaz said as he picked up the tricorder. “So are you all settled into your new home?” Kaz knew making small talk normally helped calm people or put them more at ease. (Reply Merek) (Posted by Richard) (USS Exeter – Sickbay – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0900) “Good morning Lieutenant I’m doctor Kasian Poldan. It’s way too early for this kind of medical crap in my opinion, but we must, even if it’s just to keep the Captain off our backs right..” ~Is he trying to crack a joke? Not a good time.~ On that she remained silent. “Yes, well the Captain said that appointments had to be made before we left space dock or we leave you on the dock. Trip might have been joking, but couldn’t take that chance, you know?” She answered, trying to maintain a lighter tone, but some how came out very dry. “I’ll try and get you out of here pretty fast.” Kaz said as he picked up the tricorder. “Appreciated. I do have a lot to get back to.” She retorted honestly. “So are you all settled into your new home?” The doctor began small talk. “Yes, I believe Ravok just unpacked the last of it yesterday.” She answered. (Reply Dr. Poldan) “Yes, Ravok and I share a quarters on deck three,” she said matter-of-factly. ~Part of the reason I’m here.~ (Reply Dr. Poldan) “I figured you’d see those. Yes. I quite often participate in combat simulations on the holodeck. The safety protocols are relaxed in some of them. You can’t really know what you are capable of unless the enemy isn’t pulling punches.” She explained. (Reply Dr. Poldan) “The left arm? I broke my arm when I was five or six standard years old. We didn’t have advanced medical on Carraya IV, so it was re-set manually. You can see that? Good eye, that was twenty years ago.” Keira was genuinely impressed. (Reply Dr. Poldan, room for any questions you want) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 2130) Sat at his desk Gabe pinched the ridges on his nose, he had slipped away from the party to tackle the growing mountain of paperwork. The last few days had been full on, tiring and most of all disorientating, his trademark drink at his side, PADD in hand Gabe checked over the work of all the officers in his team. Eventually coming to the notes he had made he worked his way through them when something caught his eye. "How on earth? Computer, display Academy medical records" [Working] He sipped his drink as the results appeared. "Show bloods" He looked puzzled. Back to his own notes he tried to make sense. "I knew I should have done a full physical on people. Computer do we have a transporter record for subject delta 52?" [Affirmative] "Shouldn't be there. Computer show risidual markings and cross reference with last known full examination of subject. Display" "Activate EMH" Gabe said standing up for a moment "Please state the nature of the medical…." "There isn't one" Gabe said cutting the EMH off. " I need you review some scans, it's a sensitive nature so I'd rather not use the staff" "You do know I'm linked into the LCARS" "Yes, but sometimes a second opinion is hearing that you're right, rather than just reading it. My hypothesis is on there" Gabe passed the PADD to the EMH. "It's rare but I wouldn't say you're wrong" "I was worried you would say that." Gabe perched on the desk and looked at the kind woman projected in front of him. "The difficult part of the job I assume" "You have no idea, what's the process?" Gabe asked reaching once again for his drink. "Depends on how bad the symptoms are, you are suggested to complete a full workout, fresh bloods, brain scans and physiological evaluation. Removal of duty for command staff if symptoms are present, restricted duties if not until full Medical can be carried out." "Looks like I had better get dressed, thank you. I'll let you turn yourself off." Tapping his badge Gabe swallowed hard "Vespers to the Captain" =/\=Trip here, what is going on Dr. Vesper?=/\= "Sir, I'm sorry to disturb you but I need to see you as a matter of urgency, it's personal." =/\=Understood, should I meet you in sickbay?=/\= "Sir I'd rather see you shortly in your ready room." =/\=Understood, I will meet you there lickety split. =/\= "On my way" Gabe packed up the equipment he needed into a medkit and left to get changed into his uniform (posted by Mat H) (USS Exeter - Holodeck - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 2145) Walking onto the holodeck, Erin felt an Instant sense of calm. A lit had happened in a few days and she knew that she needed this time to reconnect with herself. Having already loaded her programme, Erin walked the short distance to the cliff top, the warm air blowing her hair a little. Seeing the already built fire ahead of her, she smiled softly. The blanket that she remembered lay to one side of it, the patterns bright and calming to her. Sitting cross legged by the fire, she put her small leather bag to her side and opened it. Pulling out three items, Erin lay them infront of her and sat, cross legged, still in the warmth of the fire and closed her eyes. She took two long deep breaths, breathing slowly in through her nose and holding the breath as long as she was comfortable. Breathing out slowly through her mouth, she felt her thoughts still and her body relax. Reaching beside her her eyes still closed, she picked up a simple feather and held it in her hands as she spoke to no-one but herself, “This moment, I receive the gift of animal sight. This moment, my animal spirit takes flight. Reveal to me what I must see. This moment, my animal totem connects with me.” (Vision) Opening her eyes, Erin saw green, felt the grass under her feet and the smell of the wood hit her nostrils. Looking around, she saw the familiar lakeside and smiled softly. This place had become her sanctuary, her place of calm. As she sat, she heard the familiar soft footsteps approaching her. Bowing her head in respect, she did not turn as she felt the weight and the softness settle beside her. The smell of fur wafted to her as Erin lifted her head and kept her gaze forward. "Freyr.." she spoke softly. "My girl, you should know by now that you do not need to afford me this respect. I am here." "I know. I am in need of counsel." "You do not, my girl. You know the right course of action. You know that if you stay steady and true as the river that you will be seen by the one." "The one?" "Yes. Keep your own counsel and be true to who you are becoming." Came the response as the light padding of her paws melted away and Erin closed her eyes. (Present) Sitting quietly, Erin opened her eyes feeling calmer than she had before. Opening her hand she realised that she now held the smooth pebble and the feather lay before her. Smiling to herself, she lay back on the blanket and allowed herself a moment of calm. (Reply Any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and CMO, Ensign Gabe Vesper - 2210) Tapping the call button Gabe shifted uncomfortable. “Enter.” Trip said as he waited for the CMO to enter his office. He was a bit concerned. The crew had just had medicals. If the CMO was wanting to meet with him privately, then it meant that there was an issue with one of his senior staff….or with him… Trip tried not to think about that, but his anxiety was up. This was not the conversation he wanted to have after a joyful party. "Good evening sir, I'm sorry to disturb you at such a late hour." “Have a seat Dr. Vesper.,” Trip said motioning to the couch and armchair in the corner of his office. He knew that this wasn’t a conversation he wanted to have with the desk as a barrier. He preferred to have the conversation in a more open environment. “So what was so urgent that it couldn’t wait until the morning?” Gabe sat on the sofa, placing the PADD and the medkit on the empty cushion next to him "I've been reviewing the medicals that have been done and I've come across something a little concerning in yours. It would appear that there was an oversight on your entry physical. This isn't normal so with respect I would like to get to the point?" Trip’s heart sank a little then began beating rapidly. His chest began feeling uncomfortable. “I’d rather rip this bandaid quickly, so to speak.” "Upon reviewing your bloods you have elevated markers for a rare and almost extinct disorder called dementia. It mainly presents in elderly patients. It's not been known to be present in someone your age so it's safe to say this is very early onset. The trace is very low which probably explains why it's been missed, but over the last year or so the transporter records have shown an increase in the abnormal cells. Now, the transporter has been filtering them out but for some reason your body continues to produce the cells. “So, what does this mean. For me, for my career. This affects the memory right, I mean, am I benched, or does it happen long term, are you sure?” In this moment Trip wasn’t the captain of a Starship, he was a scared 23 year old. “How do we rule this out? or at least confirm it. Doc, are you sure?” All Trip could think about was the end of his career, of Ash taking care of a senile old man. Gabe sighed, he knew the question of certainty would come up. "Lets break it down sir. From what we know, yes this will affect your memory, however, it does affect other things, which are more likely in someone your age. They range from cognitive impairment, decision making and such. Your balance, moods and focus are likely to be effective; which may explain your sports injuries. But these are things that untreated could develop. As it stands you're young and healthy, once we can narrow down what version you have I can get a treatment plan in place and your life will continue with very little impact." Gabe stopped for a moment and shifted his seat. "However, it does reduce your life expectancy." “By how much? I won’t make 90, I won’t make 100, I won’t make 30? Because honestly, if I can make it to a retirement age, if it means I will live to see grandkids, I don’t mind not making it to 80. That’s fine. But what about…. My career? Do I need to resign my commision? Or will the treatment suffice, that as long as I stay on top of it, there will be no cognitive impairment.” "You will be more likely to die of a phaser fight at 30 than this. You'll see your grandkids." ~hopefully~ Gabe thought thanking the prophets Trip was too flustered to pick up anything with his empathic abilities. "Career, you don't need to resign. You just need to stick to your medical plan and stay healthy. I do need to inform Starfleet Medical of this though. But I need to run further tests, to go back to the point of certainty, yes captain, I'm certain. What I'm not certain about is the effect this would have on your Batazed biology." “Understood. Do whatever test you need to do, and inform Starfleet Medical. After that, you are to inform the first officer and no one else. I can’t have the crew doubting their captain this early into our time together. I will obviously inform my wife, and my family once I can see them in person. But as for the crew, outside of yourself, Lt. Bracken, and myself, this stays privileged medical information. Is that understood, or am I overreaching here?” "Sir, that's a given which leads me to a few points. I will need to conduct brain scans and would rather not do them in Sickbay, I believe we could use the holodeck and rig it up to Sickbay. I would like to take fresh bloods now and as detailed a scan as I can. But I need to warn you, if I find any higher traces I will have no choice but to relieve you of duty until a plan can be put in place and the SFMHQ informed" “That’s fine. It’s late, most of the crew is going to bed, we should do this now. I hope you understand doctor, I really would rather not wait on this.” "That's understandable." Gabe stood and took the two small grey devices out the pack. He placed them onto the captain's temples. He activated the scan on the tricorder. "It shouldn't take too long, in the meantime do you ever have moments of dizziness? Blank thoughts?" “No, never. My mind is pretty sharp. I study a lot. Schematics, tactics, fleet movements, star charts. My memory and my mind feel good. If I’m dizzy it's from standing up too fast.” As he listened Gabe pulled out the hypo and filled three vials. "Maybe your empathic abilities have strengthened your neural pathways beyond a normal human. Your blood pressure was showing normal at your medical, that is something you should have mentioned." Checking the tricorder he took the padds off. "Good news is I don't need to get you to Sickbay right now, but I would like to see you for a full neurological assessment within the week. I'll get your bloods done in the lab tonight." “So, give it to me straight, from what you see right now, is there anything that helps clear up the puzzle?” "It's early stages, once I've run the bloods I will know, once you're in for a more detailed scan, I'll know. There is a slight elevation in your synaptic pathways but given the news I'll put it down to stress." “Well my stress is definitely elevated.” "I know this is hardly comforting but please, remember this is early, with the right treatment livable. But you will need to play your part, I will be watching you" “I’ll come in first thing in the morning. We’ll get it all set up, figure out the treatment, and get started asap. Whether it's injections, a pill, whatever, I’ll do whatever it takes to stay on top of this, stay healthy... “ Trip paused as a tear began to form in his left eye. “It's funny, you know. Here I am the 23 year old hot shot, given the keys to this brand new bird, and I have a disease that’s been extinct for what, a century?” "You are still a 23 year old hot shot, you just need to know your limits." Gabe picked up a small tissue from his pack and handed it over. “Nice to know I’m mortal after all.” "We all are, some more than others. But on that note, I would suggest taking some time with the counselor, I'm a doctor not a therapist. I can talk you through how a plan would work, how it will affect you but spiritually, personally and mentally there is a better person on board. I'm not going to order you, I'm going to strongly suggest it." “I already plan on seeing her regularly just to talk about the stress of the job, so I’ll just add this to the list.” "Two pronged attack sir." “You know what’s odd doc? When you first gave me the news, the thing I was most scared of wasn’t losing this ship. It’s like I said, fear of never seeing my future kids or grandkids grow up, or being too out of it to know them, what my wife might go through. I guess that isn’t odd after all, is it?” "Honestly, I've just found my family, I think I might understand." Trip wiped the solitary tear from his eye, “Thank you Gabe, I appreciate it. For your attention to detail on these medicals. I’m going to be ok, right? "Try and get some rest. I'll run the bloods and I'll see you in the morning." Gabe couldn't answer the question, he didn't know the answer. “Thanks.” Trip said. He stood up to walk Gabe to the door. It was going to be hard to sleep, waiting for the further tests, waiting for certainty for the path forward. "Good night sir" As soon as Gabe had left Trip walked back to the armchair and collapsed. He sat there silently for an hour, thinking, reflecting, and for the first time in a long time, legitimately praying. Once he had finally mustered some courage he stood up and left to go home, to try and sleep, and to tell his wife. (reply none) (posted by Will and Mat H.) (USS Exeter - Deck 8-Room 8-1225- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2259) Sytuk returning to his empty shared quarters, a part of him had been hopeful someone was assigned to live with him. It would be a chance for him to start the process of obtaining another friendship. Something that had been suggested that he do while he was on mars. Sytuk looked at his painting supplies, he paused and contemplated if he should do another painting, but another idea sprung to mind. He grabbed one of his paintings and entered the small room that would be for his eventual roommate to sleep in. He laid a painting on the bed. The painting was of a mountain , with a beautiful lake in front of it. The lake was so clean that the reflection of the mountain and blue sky could be seen in the water. He smiled briefly as he ran his hand along the edge of the canvas. He wanted to gift this to whoever was assigned to live with him. Giving a gift to a stranger was one of the methods prescribed by his former counselor. He exited the room and left his quarters. (posted by Rob D.) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters of Jaelle Foxglove - CIO/3O Lt. JG Jaelle Foxglove and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 23:00) The party had been fun. He had spent some time mingling, but had kept his distance from Jaelle. He was still working through his feelings. Thankfully he realized that Erin and he were not going to work, so he didn’t have to deal with that confusion anymore. But he was still sorting through his feelings for Jaelle, or well Jessica. He had watched her though, not in a creepy way, at the party. She was opening up, trying, letting people in. Everything he had hoped she would do. Watching her mingle, engage in small talk. It’s when he knew, he needed to give them a chance. It was late, the party had been done for an hour. He didn’t want to wait until morning. He rang her doorbell to open his heart to the truth. She was happy that the party was close to the end of the day. True intelligence wasn't the largest section but that also meant the workload had to be shared between less people. The party was fun, some of the crew she already met and knew others she met for the first time. If for no better reason it was always good to get a feel for the crew. She knew as the intelligence chief and the third officer she needed to keep a pulse on the crew to head off any internal issues. But Erin and Billy both had told her that she needed to open up more. So she was trying. Tapping into her life as Hatsune Miku was helping in that aspect. She was in the process of getting undressed. Her uniform was half was off her person when her door chime rang. ~ oh hell. ~ she thought. ~ this will be fun.~ quipped Lily. "Sush you." She spoke quickly. Reversing the actions of her body to return her uniform back to some resemblance of properness. "Yes." She called as she rushed to return to the main living area of her quarters. Billy looked at her when the doors open into those red eyes. As he looked at her, there was a part of him that longed to see her real eye color, stare into them when they were not covered by this mask. He sighed and worked up what courage he could. “Can I come in?” "Yes," she said quizzically Billy avoid her at the party. She knew how to read a room well enough. She also knew that he had a lot on his mind and need his space to sort it out. Last they talked she dropped a lot of information on him. "You know we got to stop meeting like this or someone is gonna start rumors.” She mentioned as she saw a lower enlisted dart across the end of the far corridor. Billy looked at her as he entered. He was almost a foot taller than her, towering over her. But their height difference hid the fact that she would most likely be able to destroy him in a fight. Still even knowing that she could kill him in more ways than he could count, he was never intimidated by her. Perhaps maybe he was one of the few who have never been scared of the murder fairy. “Let them.” he said as he entered her quarters. “Is this a good time to talk?” He said, even if it wasn’t he was still going to tell her what was on her mind.” Sometimes its not the words but the manner in which they were said. Jessica knew Billy had come for a purpose. "It is." She motioned to the replicator. "Did you want anything to drink." ~Since you didn't bring you own.~ she thought to herself to which drew an internal chuckle. “No, I’m ok, I’m not really in the mood for a drink.” Billy sat down on a couch. “I’ve been doing some thinking, since our last conversation. Really did some soul searching, and take in what you said. Figure out what my feelings are. And well, I know now what I need to do, to give myself a semblance of peace. Peace of heart, peace of mind.” "That's good. I'm glad you found peace." She said smiling, before becoming more serious. "I'm sorry I know I dropped a lot on you. I told you it wasn't going to be an easy choice but I respect you enough that I wanted you to be able to make the right choice." She spoke as she moved away and sat next to her friend then becoming silent letting him have his time to express his feelings. “I don’t know no what this is, what my feelings really are. I don’t know if its just because I’m familiar with you, or because, you make me laugh, or because I’m attracted to women who can kill me in my sleep.” Billy paused to laugh. “Jae…..Jess…. I don’t really know you, the real you, not quite yet. But you opened up to me, put your trust in me.” She reached out to hold his hand taking into hers. “Jess, I care about you, and I want to get to know you, the real you." "That is something I want as well. Its just not that easy to undo what been done to my physical body. But now maybe I can return to myself…" She pondered the ideal for a moment. "Maybe I should talk to the Captain see if he can authorize the procedures to reverse. Whats been done and return me to who I'm supposed to be." “Look, I don’t know where this is going, I don’t know if there is something between us. And I don’t care about your past, or what they did to you.” Billy approached her and tapped her on her head, “All I care about is what is in here,” and then pointed at her heart, “And in there.” She spoke softly. "And you don't know what that means to me." “This could be beautiful or end in a blaze of fire.” He pulled her close to him. “But I’m going to give you a fair shake. No bias, no prejudice. I only ask one thing.” “Let me in, trust me, be open with me, let me be part of your team, treat me as an equal, as an important part of who you are. That’s all I ask.” "Only if you can be fair with me, accept me…" she paused for a moment. "All of me the good, the bad, the dark, and the light." ~ Please let this be…~ It was a thought she scarcely dared to dream. She looked into his face her eyes glittered like rubies, there was a wonder and hope for a future in them. "What does this mean for you, me, us…" “I don’t know, each day will be something new.” he said with a smile. “What do you want this to mean?” It was a simple answer, "hope." ~To dream again.~ “Well, it might bring hope. But I meant us, what do you what us to mean, what do you want this to be, do you want there to be a label?” "I don't care about labels as long as I can call you mine." She spoke holding on to his arms. “Well, the only way to figure it out is to start the journey, so Jessica, you want to go out on a date?” She simply nodded. "Name the time and place." Billy then put his hand under her chin and lifted it up slightly, leant over and kissed her on her lips. Her arms slid over his body wrapping around his next pulling him to her as she melted into the kiss. When they finally parted her breathing was heavy yet even. The palor of the her facial skin was replaced with a slight rouge. "Whatever we call this you know we're gonna have to tell the Captain. I will prefer he hears it from us and not the lower enlisted." “Yeah, well that’s going to be awkward conversation.” She nodded in agreement, resting his head on his chest. "I'll be there with you." “Hey cuz, by the way, I kissed the murder fairy, just a heads up.” Billy said with a chuckle. "And lived to tell the tale." “You are ok with this right?” She looked up at Billy and looked him squarely in the eyes. She was suddenly serious. "I understand my position, and my rank. That said there are times that other things are more important." She placed her head back on his chest and sighed happily. “Can I ask a dumb question?” She nodded knowing he was going to ask anyway. “How old are you, really? Sorry I know that is rude, but I guess, I just want to know what I’m getting into.” "Fifty-Nine." She spoke softly. "But I have the body of someone closer to nineteen. Why?" ~That’s a year older than mom.~ He thought to himself. “Just wanted to get a handle on the age difference. I mean, there is just a lot of life experience that you have, that I don’t. Not all of yours was good, but that gap in what we’ve experienced in life, is something we will have to overcome.” "It's something that will take time." Jessica mentioned knowing that her mutation would keep her alive long after Billy aged into his advanced years if everything continued as is. “But I’m willing to try.” "As am I." She said happily. “Jess,” he said as he held her tight, then looking down he kissed her again. “People are going to judge us.” She embarrassed him holding him close. “Are you ok with that?” "I have been judged all my life for worse things than following my heart." She wrapped her arms around his waist. "How about how do you feel about it? What does your heart tell you?" “To hell with the haters.” Billy then released his embrace and sat down on the couch. “I want to get know you Jess, the real you, the one you hide even from yourself.” "I don't even know who that is anymore." She answered “Not the mask of Jaelle Foxglove, or the singer, or even the reformed assassin Jessica Signos. The real you. That’s what my heart says, that what my head says. I think that’s the only way this works. You’re a spy, an assassin, and it's not all your fault. But from the get go, this only works if there are no lies.” She looked Into his eyes. "I think you're right. Besides I hate lies and secrets. They have ruined so much of my life." “Come sit next to me.” He said smiling. She took a place by Billy's side. He waited for her to sit next to him and then placed his arm around her shoulder. “As a gesture of good will, or good Billy.” He began to chuckle, his name was William after all, “I’ll let you ask me one question, any question you want, nothing is off the table, and I have to answer truthfully. How does that sound?’ "Good," she smiled as she thought. "What the riskiest thing you've done… Besides date me?" “Well first off, I haven’t darted you yet. But I guess, well, jumped of a 40 ft cliff into a body of water below on a camping trip. Kept perfect cannonball form. "Now its your turn. Ask me anything you want?" She knew it was a dangerous statement but she had to let him find the peace in his heart. She smiled though she wanted him to know about her past the good and the bad. He smiled, and then said, “What about you, that I don’t know, is the one thing you are most afraid for me to know about you?” She turned her head as she thought. Then looked at Billy as she answered. "At some point in time you will know what I am. How easy it is of me to take life, to put my own life at risk and it will scare you away from me." “You know,” He said as he brought her close to him. “I believe that over time, people change, that people grow, and that people are capable of surprising themselves. Maybe you once were able to easily take life. But who knows, maybe you will surprise yourself, maybe you will find that even you can struggle to take a life.” "Maybe," she yawned as the time continued to get late. “As for me being scared away from you, well if I run away scared from you, than it wasn’t worth it for you to be with me to begin with.” Again she nodded. Not wanting to think of that possibility, but rather get lost in the warmth of the moment. “Anything else you’d like to ask me?” "What is your greatest dream?" She asked looking over her quarters. Billy noticed her looking around the quarters, “Is your looking around a signal that it is time for me to leave?” "No that's not it." She looked over her room again. Items that defined her life were positioned precisely about. Billy chuckled, “As for my greatest dream, it's simple. Live a life worth living.” "It's funny, I look around at all I've accomplished in my life but the greatest adventures I want to undertake still stand before me." There were things from stages of her life. "A life worth Living." She repeated. "What's your next question for me?" “Well I have two questions I want to ask, one a little odd and one a little bit more in line with the game. Should I ask both?”” "Please do." She responded “Well, for the first question, what is your greatest fear?’ It was a valid question. Her greatest fear, the deepest horrors of her mind. She lived though it once and it was almost to much to bare. "Hurting the people I care the most about and not being able to fix it." “As for the next one, well…. Have you….. You know? Not that I’m hinting or anything, I think you and I need to take this slow. But you’re 59 and a sexy ninja assassin, so just curious.” "I have been with other men, I've been close, but my purity is the one thing I have to give. With everything else that has been taken from me. It's the one thing I have to give the person cares for me and me alone." “That’s beautiful.” Bill said with a sincere smile. “Well, I will do my best to honor that. You have my permission to slap me to keep me in line.” Billy let out a soft chuckle. "And I probably will." She chuckled lightly. Billy always knew when to slide in a small quip of humor to make her laugh. “You’re a beautiful enigma Jess. That’s weird to say, Jess. I’m so used to calling you Jae.” "it's all part of the lie. One lie flows into another till you no longer know where the truth ends and the lies start." “It’s late, so I’ll let you ask one last question, since I asked two on that last round.” "How much did you know about me before I told you about me? How much were you able to learn on our own?" It was a question just out of simple curiosity. If Billy could piece together here past. Who else might learn. “I learned nothing on my own. Everything I learned was from your mouth or speding time from you. Things I learned giving you a chance. The reality is Jess, it’s pretty obvious, looking at you, that you’ve experienced trauma of some kind. If you know to look for that thing, you can see the pain and heartache in the way you carry yourself and in your eyes. And honestly, your hair and your eyes are a give away that there is something not natural about you, or that your are hiding something. The current betting pool is that you are a lab experiment that escaped or some sort of advanced android assassin.” "Funny how some of those aren't far off. Thank you for that. Like I said before, I truly dislike lies and secrets. I know I have to deal with them. Doesn't mean I like it. When people learn of my past I rather them learn it from me. Not from some other source. I want people to think I'm hiding anything from them." She looked at Billy. "I will be honest with you even though things might say I shouldn't or can't. You deserve honesty. Without that we will fall apart and I don't want to make that mistake." “Well time will tell if you scare me off. Who knows, maybe I’m the one who scares you off.” Billy began to laugh. “Can you imagine that, me being scary?” He began laughin a little bit more. “Not sure why I find that so funny.” "Because we find humor in the oddities of life." She chuckled back. "Maybe we won't scare each other off but just the rest of the crew." “It’s late Jess, I should go.” Billy said, as he kissed her on the top of her head. “Otherwise I could see us sitting here and talking all night, and we both have work in the morning.” She nodded he was right but that didn't mean she wanted to admit it. Billy was a good friend and now he was becoming someone more important to her. She wanted to continue to talk to him. To curl up on the couch and just be with him. But he was right, work held them both in the morning and they both had to talk to Trip. The last thing the need was that circus to deal with, as is there would be enough rumors floating around. “Shame really, you’re quarters are much bigger than mine, I bet your bed is comfier too.” He said with a wink. "Maybe one day you'll get to figure that out, but not tonight." Jess joked. She watched as Billy stood to leave then took an offered hand, to escort him to the doorway. Her heart was saddened to watch him leave but there was also no bounds on the happiness found within those beats. “See you tomorrow.” He said as he kissed her goodnight. Smiling, he felt himself channeling the ships Orion Counselor, and skipped his way home, giddy like a little kid. (Reply none) (posted by Matt and Will) (USS Exeter - Deck 9-Holodeck- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2312) With the program ready he entered the Holodeck. The doors opened to reveal an old earth dance hall. People were inside dancing to music considered to be what most called " Golden Oldies". He walked in and sat at a table by himself. He sat and watched as people slow danced to various songs. The song Only you by The Platters started playing. Sytuk sat and and closed his eyes, listening to the lyrics. He tried to feel a connection to them but as before he was unable to make an emotional connection. He started tapping his hand on the table to the rhythm of the song. " Hello and Welc...." Sytuk jumped up opening his eyes and grabbed the hologram by the lapel of their jacket, raising them off the floor, bringing them face to face with him. " Go...away..." He said in a low menacing tone. He repased the hologram , dropping the Male to the floor. " Computer restart program , and do not allow the characters to interact with me , I am here to observe. Nothing more. " The computer chirped acknowledging his command and the program restarted. He sat back down and began to observe the holograms interacting with each other. ~ I cant do this ~ " Computer End program. " the holodeck became blank. Sytuk walked over to the door and left. (posted by Rob D) (USS Exeter - Deck 9-Nine and Dine- PO3 Sytuk (SPC)- 2331) He proceeded down the corridor to the Nine and Dine a few people were in there having late night drinks. Sytuk walked over to the bar and took a seat on one of the stools. ( reply whomever is working ) " I Don't drink alcohol, what is a recommended beverage that is preferred by many. I need something I've never had " ( reply whomever is working ) " Chocolate Milkshake? Isnt that a treat?" He asked confused. ( reply whomever is working) He sighed. " I will have two of them. " ( reply whomever is working) ( posted by Davis - SPC-Po3 Sytuk) (USS Exeter - Captain’s Quarters - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Dir. R & SE Ashlyn Williams - 23:45) It was late and Trip was dreading coming home. The prognosis wasn’t dire. And the reality with medication and treatment his life would be normal, with minimal impact. The fact that it was caught early was a huge bonus, and Trip would never make light of mandatory medicals ever again. In fact he had made a note in his calendar. In one year, he would require all crewmembers to undergo another one. Still what he was dreading was telling his wife. Would she have second thoughts about them being together? Would she be afraid for their future? Would she worry that the medicine wouldn’t work? There was only one way to find out. Entering their quarters he took off the uniform jacket and threw it over a dining chair. “Ash,” he said softly, with a modicum and stress in his voice. “Are you up honey?” Ashlyn heard the door to their suite open and Trips voice call out. “I’m just out the shower, one minute” she answered. Pulling a robe around her, and quickly drying her hair slightly. She stepped out into the room, seeing Trip in a state that she had never seen before. “Hey, we umm, I ummm.” Trip sat down on the couch, his anxiety was causing him to feel short of breath. It was a normal anxiety. The kind one feels right before during a very stressful moment. “Baby? Are you okay? What’s up?” She sat down on the couch, pulling him to the sofa next to her. “Doctor Vesper asked to meet with me this evening, after the party, about my medical exam…. Turns out that your husband isn't just the youngest captain in Starfleet, he also might have a disease that's been practically extinct for a century or two." Ashlyn’s heart sank, but she grabbed his hands. “Honey, what’s happened, what is it?” "Doctor Vesper thinks I may have early onset dementia.” She felt her eyes well up with tears, and her her heart lie heavy. “Oh sweetie, no. Dementia? How…? What can they…” She looked into his eyes, and lifted herself up, sitting on his knees and enveloped her husband in a tight embrace, pulling his head into her chest. "It's going to be ok." He said softly Leaning over, she kissed the top of his head, “I’ve no idea what’s going to happen from now, but I love you more than anything. I’m here.” "The doctor says the long term prognosis should be ok. 400 years ago, this might lead to waiting for the inevitable. But he said with medication and regular care, there should be no complications. No impairment. Maybe I don't live to 130. Maybe I don't make it past 80. But it won't effect my career, my mind, and I won't be a burden to you." Ash felt her heart sadden, there was a sense of almost self loathing that just wasn’t Trip. If he thought that she’d...she felt her blood warm irritably, ~the Bracken in me~ Ash thought. “Baby...we’re all…” she let Trip finish his sentence. "More than anything, it's a reminder that I'm mortal, believe it or not. It just sucks." “Trip...honey?” she lifted his chin, and kissed him deeply. “We could be dead tomorrow - all hands. I signed on with USS Trip Williams because life is an adventure, ups and downs. I’ll ride the ups with you, and baby...I’ll carry you through your downs. To hell and beyond.” “I know, and it’s, gonna be ok. The doc seemed to imply that since we caught it. Just need to narrow it down.” She stood up briefly, moving one leg across his so she was now, sitting astride his knees, her arms resting on his shoulders. “I know you’re scared, I am too, but you forget one thing.” “And what is that?” “Your tiny bitch ass doesn’t get rid of a Bracken girl that easily.” She leant forward and pulled him into her embrace once more. “Trust me, I’ve been trying to ditch Ailynn for years.” Ashlyn laughed. “That’s my boy.” Trip sighed, “We’ll take care of this together, as a team. We’ll find the treatment plan. Stick to it, and together we will see our children and grand children grow up. We can beat this.” “Trip.” Ash whispered. Shifting closer. “I’ll always be here. To my last breath my love.” “I need to tell Sy and my parents… But…” “But you have to tell them in person. I understand, and Sienna…I just...get it...or rather, thankfully I don’t.” “Sy is going through enough stuff right now, I don’t want to just heap this on her. That the moment I go away, well, I find out that I’ve got a disease. Even if it’s treatable….” “It will affect her so so deeply.” “So, I’m going to wait, and once things are settled on Bajor, before we head back, I’ll find her, and tell her.” “Of course.” “But before that, well, I’m going to see Doctor Vesper tomorrow morning, for the last tests, and this is going to make me sound like a baby, but, I want you to come with me.” She looked at him, just then, and took in his face, seeing more than she let on. “Always.” she whispered into his ear. “Ash….” He put his arms around her cradling her close. “I sat alone in the ready room for an hour without moving. I’m scared, I’m scared about what the crew might think.” “Honey. At the moment they don’t need to know. You have your team. Your medics. Ailynn would throw herself at your feet out of loyalty...lean on your team. They can support you at work.” She continued. “I…”she kissed him. “Can support you here.” “I’m the luckiest guy alive. You know that. Even with, well this, I won the jackpot by marrying you.” Ashlyn blushed, "it's me whose lucky." She whispered as Trip continued. “But yeah, I told Vesper, I don’t want the crew to know. He will know, Ailynn will know, Starfleet Medical will know, and you’ll know. But I need to build the trust of this crew, build rapport. I need them to see what I can do, and trust my orders.” Opening her mouth to answer him, Ash realised how worried her husband was. “And baby, I’m afraid that if they find out I have a neurological disorder, even if I’m on treatment, before I can build that trust, then they’ll use it as an excuse to question my decisions and my orders.” She pulled into a close embrace, "Trip, you have the best team that I know of, you have their absolute trust. Dr Vesper is highly competent as is the rest of the medical team. Your FO is devoted to you and you'll always have her unwavering support. On top of that James Williams," she kissed his forehead "you don't get rid of me that easily. I love you more than you can imagine." “Honestly, my biggest fear wasn’t losing my commision, it was how this could effect our future family. I want to grow old with you, my partner, and experience all of that, and remember all of that. I want to remember just how beautiful you look now, when I’m old and gray. I want to remember all the great joys we’re going to have together. All the firsts yet to come.” Ashlyn nodded silently, “We have so many firsts, and lots of time to live them. Especially if it’s been caught as early as you say.” “We’ll do this together, you and I, as a team. When we get the plan from Vesper on how to treat this, you and I, we’re going to crush it. I love you Ash, even if you are a Bracken.” Trip smiled and laughed. Ashlyn laughed, shaking her head. “You Williams boys, think you’re all that. You should count yourself lucky a Bracken girl even looks at you.” She winked. “I love you so much.” Trip then stood up and as he did so lifted her up with him, cradling her in his arms and began carrying her to the bedroom. “Now then, Mrs. Williams, it’s late, how about we go to bed, huh. We can worry about my health in the morning.” “A night away from all worry, tomorrow we can start thinking about all that.” She nuzzled into his neck as he carried her, her worries, for the time being, at least, all calmed. (reply none) (posted by Will) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 3 Stardate: 2445.09.03 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper- 06:00) "Well I'm definitely not wrong." Gabe sighed looking at the EMH, with the sensitive nature of the subject he had used the EMH again rather than any of his staff. There was a pain in his heart, the weight of having to tell a 23 year-old they have a life shortening illness was not how he wanted to spend his first week in his new post. "How did he take it?" The EMH asked looking at the results again, Gabe knew this was her programme trying to create an air of realness about her. "Surprisingly well, I've asked him to see the counselor, he asked me not to tell anyone. It's the telling Starfleet Medical that's my worry, Admiral Bracken could decide to take him off duty until we've got a plan in place." The woman walked up to the young doctor and placed a hand on his shoulder "part of the job, so I believe, having never actually….." "Stop talking, it's not helping." Gabe snapped "I'll let that one slide” The EMH said smiling once again. “Well for the second time in two days, I guess I had better get to it. I’ll let you turn yourself off but this conversation is classified.” Nodding he left the room and tapped his commbadge “Vespers to Bracken” Ailynn looked at her mug, which she was just about to fill. “Bracken. You’re on my case early this morning.” “Im sorry, but I need to speak to you as a matter of urgency.” “I’m about moving.” She answered. “Where do you want to meet” “Im on my way to your office now, I’ll grab us some coffee...believe me, you'll need it. “Understood. Bracken out.” For all her playful nature, she had switched instantly into full seriousness the moment that she had heard his voice. (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – FOs Office - CMO / FO - Ens Gabe Vesper / Lt Aimee Bracken- 0750) Ailynn pulled her uniform straight, removing her boots, pulling up her socks, and then pulling her boots back on. She’d just finished the operation when the doorchime went off and she immediately called, allowing entry. The door opened and Gabe walked in. “Morning, black americano, extra shot hold the sweetners” Gabe said handing over the drink. “I opted for coffee the morning, that Tellarite almost spat my peach tea at me. Do you mind?” Gabe said pointing to the sofa “I’ve had very little sleep, been in the lab most the morning.” “Gabe, while it’s just you and me, you can always be relaxed, you know that.” She took the lid off the coffee. “Thanks for this.” She sat back down at her desk, taking in his visage. “I’m not going to like this am I.” It was a rhetorical question Gabe took the invitation to the extent and unzipped his jacket, he felt a little more relaxed without the collar reminding him he was in a uniform. Taking a sip of the coffee he sat and allowed the sofa to encompass him slightly. “Ill just get to the point. Computer, display test results for CO Lt Cmdr Williams, authorisation Vesper alpha 3691 delta.” Ailynn looked closely at the scan, and reached into the bottom drawer and pulled out a small portableholo-emitter unit. “Computer, display on this device. Command Authorisation Bracken-echo- 3-iota.” A 3d image appeared, that Ailynn looked at with practised concentration, enlarging it in a certain place, the tiniest of flecks precisely where it shouldn’t be. As the screen showed the restricted marks and then the results Gabe drank more of his coffee. “I was reviewing medicals last night after I had left the party, I got to Commander Williams file and noticed a discrepancy in his blood results from his entry into the academy. He has elevated Tau-c markers, a sign of early onset dementia. I didnt believe it at first, but got the the computer to check, im right.” She sat back in her seat, and screwed her eyes up. “You did the right thing, but didn’t need the confirmation, I’m assuming you’re not here just to tell me because I’m a neuro?” “No, im here because youre the FO. I spoke to him last night as you can expect he’s asked this to remain classified, only me and you know; outside of anyone hes spoken to. I was in the lab at 0600 this morning running the bloods and there is no doubt. The odd thing is that his body is countering it, I can only assume its his Batazoid side. The oddest thing is everytime the transporter filters remove the affected cells his body reproduces them. Hes under orders to report to me this morning for a neuroilogical scan, try and see whats going on and then get some sort of treatment plan. Im worried that anything could stop his body protecting him and the effects kick in leading him down a path none of us would want to go. I have noted it in his file but I need to inform SFMHQ, they will need to decide if he is fit to carry on with the command.” “I understand. As you know a lot of off things can start happening with...hybrids. We’re still only really beginning to crack it. What’s the plan?” Gabe sipped his coffee again “I’ve agreed to carry out the tests in the holodeck so not to involve anyone in sickbay. I would ask you to assist but given your position I dont think its right to have both the CO and the FO off grid at the sametime.” “No I agree. Okay...so SFMHQ. Thoughts? I have a thought, but I want your ideas first.” “We may have the same idea, I feel we need to contact Admiral Bracken, she's a surgeon and a damn good one so I hear, with what she did with mum she knows the brain. That and shes incharge. I will add, as a matter of business, I have set some orders out for the captain, he’s to report to full phsyc evaluation as well as seeing me. Because its managed i’ve left him cleared for duty, slightly against protocol, but as I was able to take bloods and a more detailed scan again last night I didnt see a reason to make things worse for him. It wasnt easy seeing a 23 year old guy in tears asking if he was going to be ok.” Taking another sip and finishing his coffee Gabe stood and ordered a glass of water from the replicator “Coffee is a bad tasting necessity.” Ailynn nodded, “Get all the data first, get a complete scan, not just the brain, she’ll want to see anything that could also be affected as well. Gabe, the last thing that I want to have to do, is relieve a man of the Command he’s only had for a week. Mum will be of a similar mind, if there’s anything, that we can do to treat or even cure it…” “I spent the walk to his ready room thinking that, its an odd feeling knowing I could have sent him back to earth. From what i’ve read its treatment not cure. This disease has been kept a bay for centuries and yet I get handed a CO with it, so odd.” “I can’t even believe that we’re having this conversation.” She looked at the empty cup, and ordered a replacement from the replicator. “If you hadn’t bullied him into going for a medical…” “Stop, hes had this for years, its been missed, its only because I was trying to fill time I got it. I’m not to be praised, i was just hiding. Ailynn shook her head. “Look I’m not arguing, just take the compliment.” She sighed, and looked at the image again, zooming in with her hands. “Natural precondition?” Ailynn was trying not to be a Doctor. “I’m sorry Gabe. I shouldn’t poke into your domain. I trust you absolutely.” "I was reading it up, unfortunately given his age this is genetic, we have basically wiped out the non genetic strands but trying to find a carrier must have been low. It's mutated cells passed down and he wasn't as lucky. Thankfully he doesn't have any kids so when the time comes we can engineer the cells, remove the faulty ones and break the chain." Gabe sighed. “I’d like a report when you have those results. Whatever time of day or night it is keep me posted.” "Understood, he's due in the holodeck at 0900, I need to make the arrangements, but a day of reading for me; I'm off grid until I can work it out. This is not what I expected for my first week Ay. Kinda brings it all home Ailynn nodded. “Yeah...you got that right.” Sighing as she sipped her second coffee of the morning. “You need anything?” "Sleep." Gabe laughed thinking back to the night before. Nodding gently, “Then I’ll not keep you. Anything I can do just yell at me. You have my absolute backing.” "By the end of the day I should have this, then a coffee or a dinner with someone would be great and a weeks sleep" “Coffee I can do… a whole week's sleep...don’t push your luck Mr Vesper.” She smiled gently, “Dismissed...and...well…” She couldn’t think of the correct word, so shrugged gently. “Good luck?” Smiling his weary smile he zipped up his jacket signed and left. Ailynn watched as the doors closed behind Vesper. Her emotion was building, and she knew she couldn’t hold it in. She also knew that she couldn’t let it out. “Computer, lock door.” A beep of acknowledgement failed to register in her mind. She sat at her desk, completely numb, her hands over her mouth. She had no idea how much later the tears started rolling. (Reply None) (Posted by Mat / Mark) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0800) She entered the bridge at the beginning of her shift. The party was fun and it had lead to more positive things to come about. While Billty had made a habit of dropping by late at night he also had an effect of putting her mind at ease. So while his unexpected visits were that unexpected and cut into her sleep time. After one of his visits however she slept better, the nightmares went so bad. Making her way to her chair a strawberry danish in hand. She nearly hoped into her seat and brought up her displays to review the intelligence reports from the previous shifts. At some point she started to hum softly to herself. The name of the song was lost to her it just found its way out. She was happy. Even if it was only for one day she was gonna reveal in this feeling. (Reply any on Bridge duty.) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Bridge - COO LIEUTENANT JG Ravok- 0802) Ravok was at ops just going over a few analysis run by the previous shift when his Romulan ears heard humming, gentle and pleasant. He looked over to his right , it wasn't Ire. He glanced over to the science stations it wasn't Erin. He turned around very slowly and turned his head even slower. ~ What the hell~ he thought as chills went up his spine. It was Lieutenant Foxglove. Ravok hadn't had much time to get to know her , they had a few interactions on the Mystique but he never pegged her for being one who hummed joyfully. ~ Ok , get it together...get it together ~ He nodded his head to her " Good morning Lieutenant " He said quickly and turned back around to make it look like he had important things to do. ~ She looks so happy...~ ( reply Foxglove, any on bridge) ( posted by Davis) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0810) Trip would have been befuddled by Foxglove's new and sunny disposition if it were not for the fact that Billy had told him over breakfast that he had kissed Foxglove and they were planning on dating. Trip was a little unsure of how this was going to work out for Billy, but he was sure of one thing, if Billy had a type, he had no idea what it was, as Foxglove was an enigma. Still, if one kiss could make the murder fairy this happy, well.... it meant that either Billy had a fairy tale level kissing ability, more game than anyone gave him credit, or the murder fairy had a soul after all. ~If she keeps going around all happy like this, it's going to change her reputation.~ After she had a little back and forth with Ravok, Trip stood up. Ailynn was not present, as Trip had asked her to take the watch on Beta shift. "Lieutenant Foxglove, I've got a few appointments this morning around the ship. You have the bridge until I get back." (reply Foxglove) "Thank you Lieutenant." He then leaned in and whispered in her ear. "Happiness is a good look on you Just wanted you to know that." (reply Foxglove) Then with a slight whistle Trip made his way to the turbo lift, trying to mask the fact that he was in fact headed to his full scan with Dr. Vesper to narrow down his diagnosis. (reply Foxglove, any) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0811) She sat in the bridge humming happily away she knew others had begun to take notice however the bravest to speak up was Ravok as he turned to her " Good morning Lieutenant " He said quickly and turned back around just as quickly fingers quick at the console before him. "That it is." She replied, as she smiled happily there was an audible gasp from somewhere on the bridge. Not that she cared much. Others chuckled as happiness was infectious. After a few moments the captain rose, and addressed her. "Lieutenant Foxglove, I've got a few appointments this morning around the ship. You have the bridge until I get back." She nodded, "Aye sir." "Thank you Lieutenant." He then leaned in and whispered in her ear. "Happiness is a good look on you Just wanted you to know that." She spoke softly. "Told you did he, I wanted to he there." The Captain stood and made his way off the bridge. She kept to her chair not seeing the need to change her position to keep the bridge under her watch. Soon the turbo lifts doors shut. "Good now that he's gone." She spoke jokingly. "All station give me a status update. Let's see what the galaxy as in store for us." (Reply any on bridge) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter – Holodeck 2 - CMO / CO / CIV- Ens Gabe Vesper / Lt Cmdr Trip Williams / Ashlyn Williams- 09:00) Gabe looked around the holodeck, he had asked the computer to recreate the operating room from Sickbay and was proud at how it turned out. “Computer, transfer EMH from Sickbay to Holodeck 2.” The woman appeared “Please state the..” “Seriously I am going to change your programming. The Captain should be here soon.” Gabe ran his hand over the bed, it was so realistic. All the equipment he would use was real, everything else, projections. “I’ll wait in the corner” “You're here to vocalise the process to me, help me, don't insult me.” Before the EMH could reply the doors opened. Gabe smiled weakly at the Captain. “How are you?” Trip entered into sickbay holding his wife’s hand. He had made his peace with the possible diagnosis. He and Ash were trusting that what the doctor had said was true, that with treatment it would not affect his life, with treatment everything would be ok. Of course maybe that was what he had heard, and not necessarily what the doctor had said. Still he wasn’t going to face the scans alone. He and Ash were a team and they would do this together, every step of the way. “I’m ready to get this over with.” Trip said with a smile. “But other than that, I’m doing well all things considered.” "It is to be expected, you're still going to be processing this for a while but there are people around that can help." Gabe remained bolted to the floor, truth be told he was paralyzed with fear that actually he was wrong, that a computer glitch anything could have given the wrong readings. “Doctor Vesper, not sure you have met yet, this is my wife Ashlyn, I figured you two should meet, you know before the Bracken Christmas party.” he said with a chuckle. "I wish this was better circumstances, but I've been told about the Bracken parties" Gabe used to moment to release his knees from the state of lock. Holding to the console, screaming inside that no-one would notice the shaking hands he slowly walked to the couple and in a moment managed to calmly shake the woman's hand. Ashlyn had heard about Gabe from Ailynn, but she was calmed by his reassuring presence, and warm gentle handshake. "Pleased to meet you Doctor." Ash replied. “Now then Doc, what do you need me to do?” "If you could change into the gown sir, behind that screen. Then all I need you to do is lay on the bed, remain still and listen to me. Given the circumstances, I've opted to use the EMH as a support." Trip did as he was told Trip approached the bed and laid down. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He really didn’t mind the doctor, he just didn’t like tests. He still remembered the tests from when he tore his ACL his junior year at the Academy or when he tore his UCL in high school. Still he was thankful he lived in the century he did, where the recovery time was reduced from months or years, to days and weeks. Still, he just didn’t like laying still. “Alright Doc,” he said with a smile, “I’ll do my best not to fall asleep.” "Computer, seal holodeck access. Activate link to Sickbay main library access and play sound track Vespers Beta." As the music started to play Gabe approached the bio bed. [Mr Blue Sky - ELO] "Baby?" Ash's voice cracked with the worry that she’d woken up with. “Don’t worry honey bear,” Trip said as he handed her his hand. “It’s all going to be ok.” She picked up his hand and squeezed it. "I'm here, Love you." He looked across to the EMH "if you could" The woman nodded and pushed the transparent box across. As the bed arms rose over Trips torso Gabe pulled the box down over the Captains head "This will focus on your cerebral cortex, allowing a more in-depth scan, the arms over your torso will allow me to montor the pulses as they pass through your nervous and blood systems. The aim is to discover how your body is reacting, is there any muscular impairment or degrading. You shouldn't feel anything. Are you ok to proceed with the first test?" “The faster the better.” Trip said, though his confident tone was masking the nervousness for what the test might find. Looking over to Ash he tried reassure the woman but knew inside she was probably more terrified than Trip Ash saw Trip look at her. She knew that he could see the worry that was trying to hide. Taking a couple of deep breaths, she swallowed the nerves and put back up the brave face. "Start at 11mhz, low beta activity." Gabe said as he looked up to the large holoscreen diagonal to him above the bed designed so that Trip couldn't see what was happening but Gabe and the EMH could. As the tests continued Gabe collected what he needed, his hands no longer shaking. "The final test requires a little bit more than laying down sir" Gabe was passed the tool, similar to a laser scalpel, but slightly larger. "You will feel some heat running through your body, I need you to tell me where the feeling stops. To reiterate, not when, but where." “Umm ok.” At this point Trip was feeling anxious, what if he didn’t quite know where it stopped, what if it stopped too soon, what if it stopped too late. He let go of Ash’s hand and closed his eyes. As the heat coursed through his body, he took a deep breath. “It stopped in my fingers and my toes.” Looking up at the screen the full body scan showed that it was completed, the secondary tests finished and brain scans done. "Ok, you can sit up now." Sitting up Trip looked at his wife and grabbed her hand again, squeezing it hard. Ashlyn couldn’t say anything as her husband squeezed her hand, silently she gave him him a wane smile and squeezed back. Pulling out the two grey pads he used last night Gabe turned to Trip again "sir, I would like you to place these onto your temple left and right, then walk to the rear of the room, if you could follow the directions of the EMH we just need to get some data whilst you're moving. Trip took the two pads and placed them on his temples, then standing up he did exactly as the doctor had asked. Allowing a moment to pass he turned to Ash. "This test is all about giving us some space to talk and allowing the Captain to burn some stress off. Ash watched as Trip stood up and walked away, perhaps with a different gait to normal, but that was to be expected. "I've already asked him last night but if you could clarify his answers, do you ever find moments where Trip is forgetful, suddenly blank in a conversation? Moments he passes into a room and forgets what he was doing? Repeats himself unknowingly or reads the same sentence more than once? Ashlyn paused, shaking her head as she thought. "I haven't noticed it, I'm to assume that I need to pay attention for that kind of thing?" "It would be helpful if you could from now on" As Trip arrived back to the bio bed Gabe removed the equipment and looked at the couple. "This isn't going to give me a diagnosis right away, Dementia in many forms has been almost removed from the population so I will need to cross reference everything. Do either of you have any further questions?" “Not at the moment, well other than the obvious, when do you expect a diagnosis?” "I'm hoping for the end of the day, I've asked Aiylnn to keep me off grid today to let me research and look at your results. As soon as I have something I promise you, you'll be first to know, then we can look at the treatment plan." "Thank you doctor. Am I free to return to the bridge?" A little taken back but not surprised the Dr pondered the question "I can't ask you to remain here, there's no reason but in all honesty I believe it might be best to take a few hours to yourselves but some find work helps so I will leave it up to." "Fair enough. I'll take an hour or so of rest. Then head to the bridge. Thanks doc. I appreciate it." (Reply none) (Posted by Mat, mark, and will) (USS Exeter - Counselor's Office - -COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre & Tac PO3 Sytuk (SPC) -1415) Sytuk had been meaning to schedule an appointment with the ship's counselor. Almost as soon as he made the arrangement an appointment was made and set in stone. He walked into the office, in his hand was a small painting on a ceramic tile. The painting was a sideview of a waterfall running down a cliff face with the sun shining brightly in the background. "Hello counselor, I am Sytuk Ryakna" Eating food when the officer had walked in, she quickly swallowed the pasta and said, “Ryakna… an unusual last name Mr. Sytuk. Sorry” she added, “my last meeting went long, you don't mind do you?” He nodded his head "This is for you" he said and handed over the ceramic tile. Putting the eating utensils down, she took the painting from him. “How kind. Thank-you. I LOVE this, SO much.” Instantly forgetting the food she stood up and moved around the desk to the door and placed the painting on the wall next to it. “Where did you get this from?” she asked inquisitively. Sytuk looked down at the Orion counselor "I made it myself, my ...previous counselor said the giving of gifts is something people like. So I am following her recommendations." “I LIKE this Counselor! Would I know of them?” She moved back around the desk, “Anyway… thank-you SO much. This is the first gift I have received on the Exeter. I will treasure it forever. Please sit down Sytuk.” she said impatiently waving a hand towards the chair, Sytuk took a seat as offered "They weren't affiliated with Starfleet, they were in the city just outside the base on mars. You mentioned my last name, it's unusual because it's the Romulan word for garbage." He stated as if it didn't bother him one bit. “BOY. You are a tough read.” saying out loud exactly what she was thinking. “So.. Mr Talented Painter, Sytuk man of Garbage. What can I do for you? What is on your mind?” He looked at her very confused. "I have issues that I find counseling has helped me and I wish to continue" he said taking a deep breath. "I asked that my records be sent to the Exeter, I know this appointment is short notice but I have issues that stem back to my childhood. As for what's on my mind, I am finding it hard understanding how to socialize with people and forming emotional connections. " “Whoah. Well that’s a lot eh?” she smiled slightly. Then changing tact, “I have the notes Sytuk, but I’d prefer to hear a lot of it from yourself. But let’s start with socialisation for now and then we can move on from there in future sessions. You’ve spent quite a large amount of time on Mars with good portions of this crew are there no friends you have made? Sytuk looked down. "Ash Williams… I count her as a friend. I care about her well being. I want to make friends, but I am not very used to the concept. I observe people I listen to their conversations from time to time. I find certain crew members humorous, but beyond that I haven't been able to pursue other friendships" “You sound like a Counselor Sytuk! Standing around listening and observing, very much what I do at parties too.” she winked a little at him. "I form deep connections to my paintings. They fill the void within me. The void I use to fill with mission parameters and hurting people. But I want to fill the void even further with friendships. " Sytuk admitted. “Then your gift means EVEN more.” she said, throwing her arms up, “Amazing… I would say you’ve already taken the first step into making that connection Sytuk. Knowing you want to make friends, makes it inevitably a lot easier to do so. You say you count Ashlyn as a friend? She seems like the perfect person to lean on as the ship's Director of Recreation. Why not work with her to set-up a speed-friend table event? Have a bit of fun with it, it not only helps you work on your personal skills it allows the rest of the crew to get to know each other also”. He tilted his head " A table event? Like a display of my paintings ?" He asked. He found the suggestion very interesting, but what if no one showed up. “Hm. That’s not what I had meant, but that could actually work even better or in tandem with a speed-friend-dating table idea. See you’ve got the good ideas already there, you just need to implement them. Remember, making friends is just as much about you giving a piece of yourself to the person as it is they reciprocating. Your paintings are a wonderful window into your soul.” Sytuk thought for a moment "Would you come ? It would mean...It would be… nice if you came" “Well, as you can see” she waved her arm around the circular room. “I’m a fan of art. I will of course be in attendance as a fan of both you and your paintings.” "Thank you." He said with a slight smile " I will talk with Ash and see if I can use a space on the recreation deck." Sytuk stated. He felt determined to make friends more than ever to try and find a way for people to see who he was inside, or at least who he was becoming. “Well it sounds like we have a plan forward. Why don’t you work on that. Is there anything else you’d like to speak about?” He thought for a moment "No, I'm just thankful that you took the time to see me. I want to change and I want to feel. It's taken too long for me to admit that…" “Admitting it is the first step.” She said with a smile, now, why don’t we talk about settling on the ship…” (Reply None) (Posted by Robert Davis - Sytuk & Jono Bradley - Jester Lavorre) (USS Exeter - Bean me up - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez, COO Lieutenant JG Ravok, SPC Nesha Kervik - 1503) Sitting in the coffee shop, Erin's mind was wandering. So much had changed since she returned to Mars and now on the Exeter. So much in the crew and for her. Thinking back, she knew something had to change but change was hard. Nesha Kervik entered the coffee shop and smelled the air. The smell of coffee made her light headed, but she loved the taste. She spotted Erin sitting at a table, looking deep in thought. " Hey Jules " she said with a wave and a smile as he quickly sat down. " How are you doing ?" She asked as she gently touched Erin's hand. Nesha was a few years older than Erin but over the past few months came to view her as almost like a sister. If Ravok considered her family, Nesha did as well. Sighing, she looked at Nesha, the friend she hadn't expected and didn't know that she had needed, "oh, I'm okay. Well, sort of. Just a lot of old things, memories coming up being back here." Nesha tilted her head and twisted her lips. " Hmmm" she leaned her body across the table and looked Erin in the eyes. " Is it the bitch again ?" She whispered softly. "Not this time. It's strange but I haven't really thought about her for a while. Well other than still feeling guilty about what happened. " Nesha smiled and returned to sitting proper in her seat. " I have told you many times. The burden of guilt isn't yours to carry, my mother tried killing you over a necklace , a piece of rock. Your life is way more valuable than some stupid piece of volcanic rock. I feel guilty that I have to share DNA with that susse-thrai { romulan for bitch}" "Rae, what happened was not your fault. It was neither of our faults. She chose material wealth over her own daughter. That woman deserved everything she got. The guilt I have is that you had to choose. Between doing the right thing and me over your own mother." Nesha smiled whenever Erin referred to her as Rae, it was short for her true name of Raelin. It was like she had given Erin a part of herself and Erin had accepted. " The choice wasn't hard for me, she had it coming one way or another. I saw how much you meant to Lathuel and he welcomed me with open arms and if he considered you a sister and I am his cousin that means you are family to me as well and family looks out for their own. Who cares if your eyebrows don't look as good as mine" She said with a wink and a smile. Smiling, Erin nodded, "I blame my dad for my eyebrows." She paused for a second, "it's funny because, whilst I was on earth, I met a wise man. He said something similar to me. He told me family don't end in blood, but it doesn't start there either. Family cares about you, not what you can do for them. Family's there through the good, bad, all of it. They got your back even when it hurts." Nesha smiled. " I like that, alot . When I first met Lathuel and told him I was his cousin the first thing he did was hug me right away and wanted to know all about me. We had so much in common and when he introduced me to you I could feel the same thing with you. An unexplainable connection. I felt that with you a total stranger. My mother never made me feel that way. I am of her blood but that was it. With you it's so much different " "Well, thank you. I feel the same way. I don't have siblings. My parents had a hard time even getting me so to have Ravok and you, I feel complete. Like I have people that are my family. My hearts family. Sounds daft I know but I have things in my life now that allow me time and space to really appreciate things like this. When I met you.. well, when I encountered her, I wasn't in a good place. Not at all. In a way, your mother helped me realise just how deep and dark my head had gotten." " One thing I can say about her is she was Más tonto que una puerta when she messed with you. I hope I said that right?" "That's one way of putting it." Erin replied with a smile. "Learning the different forms of the Spanish language has been very fun and adventurous. " Nesha smirked. " So I have to ask what is bothering you ? It isn't ...him? Is it ?" "Him? Which him? That sounds like I have a million men in my life when really I don't." She raised her Romulan brow at Erin. " You know who I mean Jules" "No, actually things are good. Its… going to sound strange but I actually feel so much better and mentally stronger than I did. I have ways now that help me. " Erin smiled to herself as she subconsciously rubbed her shoulder. Nesha looked at her with curiosity. " Knowledge is power, if you have gained methods to find your internal strengths and bring them to the foreground, then I am happy for you." She nodded, "I'm more grounded. More in touch with sides of myself that I wasn't when… she found me" She shook her head at Erin. " Umm, who found you?" Nesha asked,very concerned. "Your mother. I didn't want to fight back… I operated on instinct. …" (Flashback) Opening the door to her apartment, Erin walked in, shut the door and sighed. Having decided to get somewhere close to Starfleet medical, she had finally found a small apartment where she felt safe. Where she could be alone but close enough to her counsellor if she needed to. As Erin stepped further in her apartment, she saw the photos that she had brought with her from Mars. Smiling at the photo of her and ravok, she dropped her bag by the door and walked further inside. " Welcome home " Sulesa said as she walked out from behind the kitchen wall. A man teleported into the room behind Erin and grabbed her from behind, covering her mouth his his hand. Sulesa stepped toward Erin " Now listen to me very carefully" she said with eyes wide. " If you scream you neck is going to be broken and in will make sure to mangle up what's left of you so bad that no one will be able to recognize that pretty face of yours, Do you understand?" Sulesa said as she waited for Erin to nod her head in agreement. Trembling, Erin nodded slowly, fighting down the urge to scream she nodded. Knowing who this was and why she was here, having heard tales about her, she knew this was not going to end well. Sulesa eyed the romulan man who was holding Erin , signaling him to release her mouth. "Why…. Are you here?" Erin asked, her voice betraying her. Wavering slightly she shifted herself against the man, feeling his grip tighten. " I tried Erin, I really tried to get through to you. But what you have is mine, so now you have left me with no choice. Tell me where it is and I will kill you painlessly and quickly. Refuse to tell me and I will kill you so slowly , you'll beg me to end it again and again. It's such a shame really." Sulesa eyes glared at Erin. "That was given to me by family." Erin replied slowly, "I will not give it away for money." " I was hoping you'd say that." Sulesa said with a twisted smile. " Slowly then" She waved her hand to the man holding Erin. Feeling the man move slightly, she knew what was coming. Instinct took over and she bit down hard on the hand close to her mouth. Hearing the man yell out in surprise and loosen his grip, Erin turned quickly and swiftly put her knee into his groin as hard as she could. Watching him drop, she lifted her elbow and brought it down hard on the back of his head, wincing herself as it connected with the hard skull. The man crumpled into a heap and lay still. Adrenaline hit her system and she told a slight step back, shaking at what she had just done. " Hwiiy Hhakh susse-thrai !!! { You stupid B****} Sulesa screamed as she charged at Erin back handing her across the face. Yelping in surprise, Erin turned with the force of the slap, holding her hand to her face. Looking over to the cabinet nearby, she saw the knife. The one Keira had made for Ravok, that he had given to her when she left for earth to help keep her safe when he couldn't be there. Glancing back for the briefest of moments, Erin ran towards the cabinet. Sulesa followed her eyes and ran toward the cabinet after Erin, grabbing a hold of the back of her neck . Spinning round, Erin flung her elbow back and felt it connect with something hard. Sulesa lost her balanced and fell backwards onto a small table. Her black dress getting tangled as she fought to get back up quickly , she looked at Erin with green blood all over her face. Sulesa leaped toward Erin knocking her to the ground and started striking her in the face " I'm gonna strangle the life out of you human... " she said as she put her hands around Erin's neck, blood coming from Sulesa's mouth. Grasping the hands around her neck, Erin felt her breathing becoming harder. Her head began to spin and she felt something on the back of her head, a warmth that she knew was probably a cut and a bad one. Summoning what strength she had left in her, she reached up with a hand and dug her nails into the woman's cheek. Sulesa released her grip and fell backwards off of Erin, holding her face. " This could have been SO MUCH EASIER!!!" Turning over, Erin felt her vision blur as She began to drag herself closer to the cabinet, her hand reaching for her combadge to call for help. As her fingers touched the badge, her strength waned again and she dropped to the floor. Breathing harder now she lay on her carpet, head pounding. Sulesa stood up and staggered to the cabinet holding her face, at this point it had become apparent that Erin had knocked out a few of her teeth. She reached in the cabinet and quickly grabbed the blade. She turned and dropped to Erin's side she grabbed Erin's face tightly with her left hand " Oh no no no, you are gonna stay awake for this" Erin looked up, spat at her and replied, "do it. Just do it you selfish, egotistical, arrogant…" Sulesa raised the blade in the air with her right hand and let out a scream as she was about to come down with the blade, straight into Erin's chest, but before she could. Nesha beamed into Erin's apartment and aimed a phaser at her mother. " DHAT!" { No} she screamed at her mother in Romulan. Sulesa looked up at Nesha " Raelin, I'm doing this for us, for you. It belongs to u.." Sulesas words were cut short as Nesha fired the phaser striking her mother center mass with the highest stun setting. Nesha dropped the phaser and ran over to Erin, lifting her mother's unconscious body off of Erin. " Erin! ERIN!!! " she yelled as she lifted her head off the floor and tried putting pressure on her wound. She cradled Erin to her chest rocking back and forth. Starfleet security beamed into the apartment aiming their phasers, Nesha paid them no mind as she continued to cradle Erin…. Nrpg: End of flashback Rpg: Nesha sat there looking down at Erin's hand , she reached out and grabbed it. " I stayed with you until medical said you were alright. I'll never forget how afraid I felt. She never crossed my mind one time. You were all I could think about. Had I'd been a moment later , you wouldn't be here." Gripping her hand, Erin smiled softly, "but you did and I am. Some things are sent to try us, some things break us and some people are there to put back the pieces." Nesha could only smile, Erin was truly a good person. "I don't know if Ravok was relieved or mad. Mad because there I was, at Starfleet medical again… I think he got sick of worrying about me. " " Him?, hell I was mad that you didn't knock all of her teeth out " She laughed. " But seriously Lathuel was only mad that things keep testing you, He was just thankful you were alive, and a part of him feels guilt for giving you the necklace in the first place" "Then you tell him from me that the only one who should feel any guilt is her. He has nothing to feel guilty for. I wouldn't be the person I am now if I hadn't gone through these tests." " Why don't you tell him yourself." She nodded her head towards the entrance of the coffee shop. Ravok walked into the coffee shop, he sniffed the air and cringed slightly. The aroma of coffee was not one that he liked but, one that he had gotten used to. He spotted Erin sitting there with Nesha. Waving to him, Erin smiled softly. This man, above all others, had been the constant in her life. He had seen her at her worst, held her when she cried and boosted her when she needed it. Now it was her turn to do the same for him. "Get your Romulan ass over here!" Ravok smiled as he approached the table. " Y'hhau Rian {Hello Cousin}" Nesha nodded her head in response to him. " Hey Erin" he said as he sat down. Smiling, Erin looked at him, "Hey stranger." " I'm gonna get going. Im gonna let the two of you chat, see you around Jules." Nesha said as she stood up from the table. Ravok gave Nesha a hug. " See you later " Giving Nesha a look of I am gonna get you for this, Erin nodded and watched the woman leave. "She thinks we have unfinished business to talk about. " Ravok sat back down. " She thinks a lot of things doesn't mean she's right" "This time, I think she is though." Erin responded softly. "Lathuel, I can tell you have guilt on you. Spill it." Ravok placed both elbows on the table and buried his head in his hands, taking a deep breath and rubbing his forehead. He lowered his hands and clasped his hands together. " What's done is done Erin. You survived yet another load of bullcrap and here you are sitting here looking more confident than you ever have. Yet ...I still feel bad because you got caught up in Romulan crap. I gave you that necklace and you almost got killed for it. Of course I'm gonna feel bad. " Taking his hands gently, Erin looked into his eyes, "don't. Just don't. You were not to blame for what happened. This is not on you. I survived. That's it right there. I survived and I have no ill will towards you. You have been and always will be my brother. You understand?" Ravok smiled at her words. She was right. Letting go of his hands, she leant back in her chair, "Lathuel, let it go. It will eat you up inside. Take it from one who knows." " I will …" He grinned. " I feel even worse for not catching up with you sooner. How's life as chief Science officer treating you?" "It's good. I have good staff and time to work on things that I want to. Funny that I would never have said that I would be a department head this young." " Sometimes we get chances in life that we weren't expecting, when we get those chances we must grab them and make the best of them" Ravok responded. "I know. Life takes turns that you least expect. Mine more than many but I am learning to embrace the changes." Ravok tilted his head slightly " Have you spoken with..you know " he leaned toward her " Billy?" "I did. I spoke to him before we launched. It just wasn't meant to be for us. That's fine because I wasn't in the right place in my life for anything. Now, who knows?" She replied with a smile. Ravok shook his head " I'm glad you realized that, I like Billy, he's a good guy but the two of you were horribly matched. He needed something you weren't able to give him." "That's true. Same goes the same way I suppose. " " He needed you to let him in, he needed you to trust him with not only what you wanted to tell him but everything about you. He loved you, that much was apparent but you weren't ready. You had to take care of yourself, no one can blame you for that. " Ravok said, hoping his words weren't too harsh but he wasn't going to tell Erin what she wanted to hear. He was going to be honest . "Sometimes I blame myself for that… well I did. We were both too young in spirit for each other. Now, I know myself and what I want and need. " A look of intrigue came across his face. " What do you need ?" "I need to stop being so competitive. To allow myself to become who I was meant to be." She replied with a wicked glint in her eyes. " Umm, what are you talking about ? Who is competing with you ?" "Someone told me that I have a competitive streak and he was right. Jackass that he is." Erin responded with a soft smile. ~not so much a jackass but he was right~ " I get that, but who told you this ? Somebody on Earth ?" Ravok asked, very puzzled. "You may have met him actually. Jimmy. Jimmy Hart. He took over the squadron on Mars." Ravok started laughing " Jimmy? Gorgeous Jim? " He started laughing and slammed his hand on the table. His face turning green from laughter. " Wait wait. Gorge...Gorgeous Ji…" His laughter continued. "What's so funny? He's a good guy. " " I'm sorry , I'm sorry, I'm not not laughing at you. It's just Lieutenant Hart. Is like if the captain and billy had a baby. He always stands with his hands on his hips. Looking off in the distance like he's some kind of superhero. I swear you put a Cape on that guy and he's Superman. He's such a boyscout." Erin smiled, "He does have that air about him. He's a good guy though. We shared a few drinks on earth." She paused for a moment remembering their last conversation. Ravok looked at Erin. " You aren't? Hes Billy's cousin…" "What? Him? No, no. He's a friend, that's all." " Oh ok that's good , we romulans have a term called Rho'tavi it doesn't have a direct translation , it's more of a label or statement meaning someone who basically keeps it in the family. But hey I'm not judging. I'm glad you found a friend " "I have. It's strange because I don't see him that way. Not romantically. He's… he challenges me. Called me out on earth for being competitive and he was right. But, before you think I am keeping it in the williams/Alexander clan, stop. Don't even go there. Jimmy is a friend." Erin paused, took a breath and relaxed, "Anyway, Keira invited me for dinner. So does that mean I get to see you with your chef hat on again because I may need to warn someone that you are cooking and the fire alarms may go off." " Really funny, no we are gonna have Tacos we are gonna replicate the raw products and cook them and piece them together ourselves. Sort of a group thing. So if there is a fire it will blamed on all of us" Ravok replied. "Okay, sounds fun…" Erin replied, her voice tailing off for a moment. " What's wrong ? " ~ Are tacos a bad choice ~ he thought "I'm … okay. I've dealt with a lot the past few days and it's taken it out of me. Thankfully, I know what I need to do." She smiled. Ravok nodded his head " Go get some rest, I have to get back to work , we have a power fluctuation on deck 19 that needs some attention" "Rest… that's right. I will. Go deal with the power, chief. " (Reply none) (Posted by Jackie and Rob D) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 19:00) Gabe spent the rest of the day reading and checking notes. This was far from what he had signed up for and far from what he expected. His eyes blurred as he looked at the screen, he was sick of having to stop every time someone walked in as he needed to keep this quiet. “Sir, thats the last of the crew left for their medicals. I have the notes if you want them?” Nurse Silvine said hovering with a PADD “Has Ensign Winters been in?” Gabe was puzzled and hoped she hadnt. “She came in this morning, not sure who saw her, why problem?” Silvine asked with a concerned look. “No, if you pass the notes to Dr Poldan please in the morning, I’m in the middle of something.” “Sir, if I could be blunt?” The Bolian asked Gabe looked up, partly glad of the distraction, partly annoyed “go on” “You look like you could use some time out, I came on duty early and you were here before me, which means you've been working the whole day. You need to look after yourself.” She said still standing in the doorway “I guess you're right, but this is important, although i'm not sure I would be able to break it overnight.” Gabe leant back in his seat and pinched his temple again “You won't break it by burning yourself out sir.” Looking at the older woman he saw someone that clearly cared, someone that wanted to help. “You're absolutely right and I know just what to do.” He picked up the PADDs and closed off the terminal. “Thank you” “Good night doctor” “I certainly hope so” he said walking to the door “Vesper to Winters”=/\=This is Winters. What is it Doc? Not have enough of me beating you at checkers at Bean me up! Last night that you want me to school you some more?=/\= “Look Ronnie, I’m pushing the boat out here a little, its been a hard day I just wondered if you would like some company?” =/\=Well now I feel bad for being a smart alec. Umm, sure, where do you want to meet up?=/\= Gabe smiled a little more sincere, he wasn't used to having someone joke with him, he was more used to being the joke. There was a warmth in her voice the Gabe actually liked. "Since I chose coffee last night, how about you choose? To be honest, right now I would be happy with the nacelles." =/\=Well is this a social call or business?=/\= Stopping in the corridor he pondered the question ~what is this actually, why have I called?~ "social, it's not allowed to be business" Gabe really didnt know how to respond, right now he needed someone to talk to, someone to confide in; someone not linked to Trip. But his oath and his orders meant he couldn't tell her everything. =/\=Why don’t you stop by my quarters. I was so amped last night when I beat you at checkers 5 times in a row, that I got a little excited and I think the rec staff might be happy if I took a day to cool down and not give them two days of over competitive Ronnie.=/\= "Thank you, you're a life saver." Gabe started moving again and headed the way subconsciously he was heading anyway. =/\=See you soon.=/\= (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Geology Lab - ACSO Ens Adala Michaels and MO Ens Kyros Ryelle - 19:15) “I was told I would find you here.” Ryelle said as he entered the geology lab. He was holding some boxes in his hands. “There are people that are wondering if you’ve left your lab at all today.” Adala turned, having heard a voice behind her.. "It's either here or my quarters lately and usually not long in my quarters. Would rather be here." She laughed and shook her head. "You can tell those who are wondering that no I haven't left the lab today." “I hope I’m not intruding Ensign Michaels. Hopefully you remember me, Dr. Kyros Ryelle, we met yesterday talking about Buffalo wings, even though they are chicken meat.” “Not at all Ensign, not at all. If I am here, my door is always open.” she smiled at him. “You can call me Ryelle, Kyros is my family name, but Ryelle is my given name.” “Ok, Ryelle it is, then. You can call me Adala.” she turned and gave him her full attention, leaving the rock she’d been cataloging on the workbench before her. “Well Adala, I did some research on the so-called buffalo wings. Apparently the name is derived from Buffalo, New York, in North America, where the wings were first coated with that particular sauce. Shows how little I know about Earth food and geography.” Ryelle began to chuckle. She laughed. “I am not the best at it myself, I only know where SF HQ is, even though I was born there. I spent most of my life on board ships or stations.” “Ah yes, the purpose of my visit. A dear friend of mine helped me get better acquainted with Earth culture and cuisine, in return I made sure to get her out of sickbay from time to time to better enjoy the pleasure of life. I thought maybe, you could be my new ‘teacher’ and I of course would make sure you didn’t get lost amongst these beautiful rocks.” “Sure I guess.” She shrugged. “Well, at least allow me today, I found out there are other flavors of wings, and a boneless variety. So I brought dinner. We have boneless barbecue, lemon pepper, garlic parmesan, and sweet thai chili, all from the Nine and Dine. You would at least allow me this small cultural exchange. Please?” Considering she hadn’t eaten yet, since she had arrived that morning. Been too busy cataloging and getting lost among the rocks, as he had said. She was quick to accept his offer. “Dinner sounds wonderful.” she said as she moved things off a nearby table. “I hope you don’t mind the mess?” she said as she found a rag and wiped off the table once it was clear. “It’s a lab, not a monastery, I didn’t expect it to be pristine.” He opened the containers. There were no plates but two forks and some napkins. “I figured we’d just eat from the boxes.” Adala grabbed two clean rags from a stack on her work space and handed one to Ryelle. “This will work instead of plates, They are clean.” She spread one out on the table before her and placed a couple of pieces of chicken on it before taking a bite out of one of the wings. “I think mine is garlic parmesan.” she paused and took another bite. “These are awesome.” Ryelle took one bite of the lemon pepper. “Oh my goodness, this is phenomenal.!” It was like a child trying ice cream for the first time. “I don’t often eat Earth food to be honest, even though I am from there. I prefer Klingon cuisine.” She said before taking another bite. “However these might just make me change my mind.” “So tell me Adala, why do you lock yourself in your lab?” Adala shrugged.”I have always felt more comfortable among the rocks. I free climb cliffs, I spelunk, that’s climbing in caves.Just more comfortable there than among people I guess.” “Well I guess to each their own,” he said as reached over and tried the garlic parmesan. “Personally I find people fascinating. People watching is one of my hobbies. Everyone is different, whether due to race, species, planet, background. And much like your rocks, everyone of them is unique at their core.” “I am a people watcher when I am out in crowds. Just don’t feel secure.” she sighed and frowned before taking a bite of one of the other wings sitting before her. “Barbeque this time, It’s really good.” “Also, how can you not eat Earth foods, chicken wings, corn dogs, which are not made from real dogs, but do have corn meal, and hamburgers, that are made from cows, not ham, and bacon. How can you choose gagh over bacon?” “I grew up on ships and in space. I grew up around other races, species and types of food. Not just Earth food. My parents brought me up to be adventuresome. I suppose I am too adventuresome too often though.” Her mind going back to the conversation she’d had with the doctor. “I still stand by my original statement, how can you choose gagh over bacon?” Ryelle then tried the sweet thai chili. “Ooooh, this one has some bite to it, spicy, I like this one.” He took a second one and then a third. Adala reached over and pulled one of the chili ones from the box and took a bite. She nodded and smiled. “I think this is my favorite out of all of them.” she shrugged. “I don’t know I love gagh, especially if it’s prepared the right way. Not this replicated stuff they offer most places.” “Well Miss Adventuresome, what kind of adventures do you go on?” She laughed “My new name huh?” she asked “What kind of adventures? Lots of them. I have done cave climbs both in and out of the water. Water ones are fun. I do most of my climbs without ropes or any safety equipment.” “So you have a death wish?” He said with a laugh. “I’m teasing, of course. Do you go on these avengers on your own or do you have a crew you hang with?” Adala laughed “Maybe I do?” she shook her head though and continued. “No I don’t. I just like pushing myself to see what I can do and know my limitations.” She took another bite of one of the wings. “I go alone. I don’t take anyone else with me. I don’t want to hear how I am being too careless or something.” she wiped her hands on one of the napkins. “I don’t take unnecessary risks. I don’t rush into anything. Everything is planned out ahead of time.” “You’re a lone….what’s the earth phrase, a lone….bear….moose….racoon….coyote….” “Lone wolf. It is a lone wolf” She said finishing his sentence for him. “Wolf, yes, thank you, you are a lone wolf aren’t you?’ “I suppose I am, I will take others if they want to go but I don’t offer. For me cliff climbing is almost a spiritual thing. It brings me peace.” she thought about this for a minute and let out a sigh. ~ If this brings you peace, why haven’t you gone lately.~ she thought to herself. “I guess that makes sense, but I’m not just meaning in your adventures. I mean just in life. You lock yourself in here, you hide, you keep to yourself. A lone wolf. Don’t you wish you were part of a pack?” Adala shrugged. "I don't know, I guess so." It wasn't that she wanted to be alone. She just was more comfortable surrounded by her work. "I do what I need to do I suppose. It's not that I don't mind being around people but I have always prefered my work." “There is an old Bajoran saying, all work and no play makes Nix Jacksus a dull boy.” Adala sighed and frowned. "Am I really that dull?" “As a physician, I need to stress the importance of a good work/life balance. And as a fellow sentient being on this ship, I need to stress that we’re not half bad, once you get to know us.” She knew he was right, but she also knew and remembered her past postings and how she was always the outsider. Only on Earth had she felt like she was needed. Maybe that was it, she had to feel needed, otherwise it was nothing. "I have to feel like I am needed and wanted though, the only place I felt that has been at HQ where they needed my expertise." “Ah, I see.” He said stuffing some more wings in his mouth. If he had to rate them, they would go Sweet Thai Chili, Garlic Parmesan, BBQ, then Lemon Pepper. “But that’s just in work, though right, feel needed and wanted in work?” "Rather it be work or personal time. I don't know, just never really felt part of the group. ... except for a select few." “Have you perhaps considered that perhaps by isolating yourself, you might be making it harder for people to enjoy or want the expertise that is Adala the person, not Adala the scientist, not in their work lives, but in their personal ones.” "People, if they really want me in their lives, know where to find me. I spend my time here instead of sleeping or drinking my life away for lack of things to do." she shrugged. "Perhaps it's the way I was brought up, that's part of the problem. My parents were work-a-holics. They worked, and they had their personal time. Usually with people from their selective departments, even on their off time. So in a way they were never off work." “Sorry, I used to be a monk, and sometimes the old Monk comes out, he can be a bit of a Buttinsky.” She smiled at his comment. "Maybe that'll be my new name for you Ens Buttinsky." she took another chicken wing and nibbled on it. "Sorry, bad joke." “No that is fine, I have been called worse.” He smiled. “I can’t tell you how to live your life Adala. Only you can determine your path and your destiny. You are the controller of your fate. But, perhaps it might benefit us and you, if you escaped the lab from time to time. Not everyday, but maybe once a week. Once a week, one of the lounges. And before you know it, you’ll have a better friend, rock balance.” He then chuckled a bit. “I suppose I could pop into the coffee shop, I do enjoy my coffees, I am always up to finding new ones I like.” She said with a hint of a smile. “At the end of the day Adala. You know you, you know what you’re comfortable with, and you know what you need to thrive. And now that we know you are in your lab. We know where to find you. So what food should I bring next time?” Adala pondered his question briefly and shook her head. “Surprise me.” “Indeed, I shall.” He smiled. “But seriously Adala. This is a good crew, a good ship, and we want to be there to support you and have your back. So please, make it a little easier on us. You’re easier to find hiding in the open than behind a rock.” Adala laughed. “Ok, next time I am hiding I will make sure the rock has a hole in it.” Ryelle then reached down and grabbed one of the garlic parmesan boneless wings, and then when she was slightly distracted, playfully threw it at her face. Adala ducked just in time. “Hey now!” she laughed and shook her head. “You know you make a mess of my lab, you have to clean it up.” Her tone was joking and lighthearted. “Adala,” he said with a smile. “I think it’s time for me to go. Need to go run an errand before turning in for the evening.” She smiled. “Thank you for dinner and the company. I really appreciate it.” She began clearing off the table as she spoke. “But before I go, just remember, you have a lot to offer this ship, so please share it with us.” “I will try to remember.” she passed him one of the boxes. “Here are the leftovers, mostly the chili flavored.” She did appreciate his effort and his words, even if she didn’t say to outloud. (reply none) (posted by Kathleen and Will) (USS Exeter - Quarters of Ronnie Winters - CMO, Ens Gabe Vesper and ACFO, Ens Ronnie Winters - 19:20) Standing at the door Gabe pressed the call button. He had very quickly headed back and chanaged into something a little looser than his uniform. As the door opened he looked at Ronnie "I know you said you prefer the pretty boys in Dress Uniform, so I thought I had better avoid that. Thank you, I know it's late." “And I thought pilots, were cocky.” She said with a laugh, “But here is the doctor, strolling in here assuming he’s my type.” "Well, I can pilot a shuttle remember" Gabe said warey with a little wink. “So Gabe, I get the feeling that you have a lot on your mind. What’s up?” She led him over to the living space, motioned for him to sit on the couch and she sat down in the arm chair that sat next to it in a perpendicular manner. “The counselor is in.” She said with a laugh. Gabe sat and instinctively kicked off his shoes and tucked them under his legs on the sofa. "Would it be annoying if I told you I can't actually tell you? I found out something today about a patient, it's basically going to change their life and it's my fault they know, if I hadn't been doing due diligence they would have been having a far better day." Smiling at Ronnie he sighed a little. "Well someone sure feels like they can just make themselves at home." She said sarcastically pointing at his shoes. Then she sighed took a deep breath and said. "Look, isn't it better you tell them, than them living blissfully unaware until its too late. So who cares if their day is ruined. Maybe you made it so their life won't be." "What? Oh, sorry" Gabe noticed what he had done, "I'm tired, it's instinct" he started to unravel his legs. "That's the thing, this is life changing for them and anyone linked to them. But the even bigger thing is, I have no idea how to fix it. Got a call with Medical tomorrow so should get somewhere" Then Ronnie smiled at him, a warm comforting smile that her grandmother always said was identical to that of her mother's. "Giving bad news sucks, but you've also given them a path forward and that's important. So suck it up buttercup." "Ever thought of going into counseling, suck it up buttercup" Gabe laughed “Look, the best thing for them right now, is that, whatever they have, you found it. You caught it, and you can find a treatment for it. If you can’t then they can go somewhere where they can find that treatment. So that’s good right?” "We'll find it. But it's such an old disease and with all the complications with him….. It will come one night in a dream" Gabe quickly finished his sentence hoping it wasn't too obvious. “I guess, well that’s the hard thing with you doctors, huh? Your work doesn’t just end at the office. When I’m done, my work stays on the bridge. But you, you have to bring it home don’t you? That has to suck.” Looking once again at her Gabe pulled his knees into his chest "it really doesn't, the care of people is all day. Still, I guess that's why we do it. Can I use your replicator?" "Yeah go ahead." She said, worried about his stress. "Look, I guess you have to ask yourself. Catching it now, is it treatable? Will he live a full and productive life? Will it keep the symptoms from developing and lessening his quality of life? Obviously if its something that's rare its because we had the means to eradicate it right?" "Most forms are eradicated, but there are some genetic version that remain, although very rare. Its more about treatment and trying to stop future generations now.” Gabe was over at the replicator and ordered two sets of pancakes, not really hearing what was being said. "I mean it's not like you're about to go tell the captain he has to retire. It'll be ok." Gabe turned and froze ~how? Coincidence has to be~ “Something like that. Here, Syrup pancakes, not great this time of night but my favourite dish, Aiylnns too as it happens.” “I always preferred them with chocolate chips.” “So, how was your day” Gabe looked at the layout of the room, he wished Ronnie had been sat on the sofa. “Easy, I’m stuck on the night shift, so I’m kind of just sitting around waiting for Gamma to start. Then it will pick up. I had to umm, trade shifts, because I was way too hungover to do Beta shift this afternoon. So I’m doing better now.” But We’ll see how it goes tomorrow.” “Did someone keep buying you drinks last night?” Gabe laughed a little then returned to his solom self, ~why should I laugh when hes struggling~ “Are you gonna be ok Gabe? Seriously, you’re wound up tighter than an antique clock.” “Nothing a stiff drink, a massage and a crap film won't solve. Just a lot to process.” “Well don’t sit there throwing a pity party.” Ronnie went over and sat down next to him and put her arm around him. “Look, sometimes, sometimes, bad things happen to good people, people who don’t deserve that fate. Look, I’ve talked to Ailynn, you and I both lost our parents. We both grew up not knowing our dad, I grew up not knowing my mom too. That’s the sad truth, pain is real. But whoever this is, they’re lucky. You caught it, you can help them. There are all sorts of new technologies out there to make things easier, better. There was no one there to be able to help your dad. No one there to safe my mom and dad. No one to rewrite their destiny. But you, you have a chance here to be a real hero. I mean, have you seen what they can do now for the human body with repurposed borg tech and synth technology. Supposedly they have these self replicating nanites that can do wonders for the human body. Or so Ailynn’s mom said at some lecture she gave. I slept through most of it, I went with Ailynn so she wouldn’t have to go alone.” Responding to the warmth Gabe moved a little closer. He could smell Ronnies hair, it wasnt fruity, more lilac. Her frame pressed against his, he listened to the sound of her voice. “Wait….say that again...not that dad stuff, the borg stuff.” Gabe had bolted upright, almost throwing her off the sofa. “Umm, well, if I remember correctly, thanks to advances in nano-technology, the reintroduction of advanced robotics and synthetic lifeforms in 2399, and research from the Borg reclamation project from the same year. Nano-tech medical research has made leaps and bounds. I mean just because Starfleet has been in the crapper, doesn’t mean medical research stopped. Apparently they can program a neuro receptor to create self replicating nanites to attack invasive or mutated cells. It’s brand new. Only have had a few test subjects, all positive. I’m pretty sure Ailynn could get you her mom’s lecture. It’s being published in this month’s issue of Starfleet Medical Journal. Or so Aimee said to us at lunch. I slept through the lecture, remember.” “We can remove the affected cells using the transporter filters, which happens every time. Then programme the receiver to continually scan the body for when it reproduces the cells and use the borg tech to destroy them. Effectivity training the body to protect itself.” Gabe grabbed Ronnie who was trying to get up and kissed her quickly on the lips. “You’ve just saved Trips life, I need to go” Ronnie slightly pushed him away. “Umm yeah, I think you do.” She said stepping back a bit, sort of in shock. “Umm go….go save his life…..I won’t tell anyone you told me.” “Told you what?” Gabe said so full of the moment he was completely unaware of what he had said. “Go, get to work, alright. Go be brilliant” she said still processing what had just happened. “I owe you a date. But I have to go and use the Borg.” Gabe smiled with the half wonky smile that seemed to develop when Ronnie was around and left. As he left she sunk into her chair, still trying to process what had happened, with a giant smiling grin on her face. ~What a weirdo. What an adorably cute weirdo.~ she then looked around the room. ~an adorably cute weirdo who left his shoes…..great.~ (reply none) (posted by Will and Mat) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 4 Stardate: 2445.09.04 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Jefferies Tube - Engineers -Ensign - Kryx/ Galu Vozi - 0330) Galu groaned as the hatch in front of him did not open as he reached it. He pulled open the small access panel beside it and peered at the circuit inside. There did not look like there was anything wrong but flicked open his tricorder and gave the circuit a cursory scan. “Wonderful, a faulty sensor.” He put down the tricorder and grabbed for his PADD which he then entered the fault and where on the ship it was. The information would then be sent to the main computer for it to put in a repair list for him to come back out later to fix. He had found half a dozen in his trip through the maze like innards that was the Exeter’s Jeffriees tube system. He reckoned that he had not seen anyone or stood up straight for hours. He grabbed the emergency crank handle that would manually open the doors. He began to pull on the crank which began to open the hatch. He heard something clater to the floor and realised that it was his PADD. He leaned back to pick it up and as he came forward again he came face to face with someone in front of him. He lurched back and landed on his back side. “What on Orion are you doing here.” Kryx let out a chuckle, if you could call it that. Most of his words came out as squeaks or grunts. “Repairing …… “ He tipped his head at Galu and passed him the padd he had tucked in his pocket. It contained information on the repairs he’d been doing. Kryx knew he should talk more but so far he’d not met many of the crew or had reason to. Galu shook his head as he took the PADD and scanned it comparing it to what he had written on his PADD. “Looks like you got the fun duty. Crawling around in these Jeffries Tubes.” Kryx shrugged.. He didn’t mind crawling around the Jeffries Tubes. It was almost like he was built for it. “What did you do to get this salubrious assignment?” “Just .. put .. me here.” He said amid squeaks and grunts. “Small enough.” “That you are for sure.” Galu ducked low as he pulled himself back onto his feet. “You my friend are definitely small enough but I am not.” Kryx stood and stretched “What are you looking for?” For the first time talking in a full sentence. He tipped his head towards Galus padd. “Well at the moment I am doing a check of the main Jefferies Tube access ways.” He indicated to the hatch. “The hatch has a faulty sensor which means that it won’t open automatically.” “Want help? ” it wasn’t like he was doing much. He’d been sent into the tubes to scan sensors himself and could and would take the time to help his larger, more cramped crewmate. Galu shrugged. ~This is the first person I have seen for hours. It will be good to have some company or you will start going crazy~ “Sure why not.” He opened the access hatch again and moved back. Kryx motioned.” Lead the way.” He knew he had to practice talking. He’d gotten so used to not having to speak and knew with this crew he’d have to talk. Galu shuffled back out of the way to give Kryx some space to work. “It's the one here.” Kryx leaned in and ran his tricorder over the offending sensor. A low, almost growl came from his throat as he pulled the sensor out of the socket and taking another from his bag, replaced it. “This should work.” He said as he scanned the new sensor. Galu reached past him and waved his hand in front of the sensor and watched the hatch slide open. “That looks like it works. Thanks. By the way I am Galu Vozi.” Kryx smiled, if you can call it a smile. “I’m Kryx, nice meeting you” He looked back at the hatch. “How many more?” Galu smiled and nodded. He looked at his PADD and scrolled through the list. “I have two more in this section and four more two sections across and up.” Kryx squeaked “Let’s get it done.” He wasn’t like most, he liked his work. Loved spending time crawling through the ship, finding all those unknown areas that had been long forgotten. Galu tried to hide his smile at Kryx enthusiasm. “Okay let's go.” He moved out of the way to let Kryx go past and then followed him down the jefferies tube. (Reply any) (Posted by Kathleen and Robbie)(SPC Kryx and Galu Vozi) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper,Surgeon General VAdm Aimee Bracken - 0600) Nerves rushing through his body Gabe he wasnt sure how the call would go, it was early for everyone, having had little sleep the adrenaline supported the nerves and kept him going. The call was sat on the large screen in his office, Gabe was sat down with his drink. He was about to come face to face with the woman that not only saved his mothers life, but was also his fathers devoted and significant other. “Deep breaths, shes human. Thats all, shes human” He looked at his desk and moved the photo of all of them on holiday all those years ago to where it needed to be, pride of place. His father blue labcoat with the faded marks of the old style combadge wrapped around him. He was ready. The woman came onto the screen, she was aged but he saw someone he knew from years back, the kind eyes wrinkled but there, behind the look. He could see Aiylnn in her and once again for the first time in years he felt familiarity, he felt family. Aimee looked to the screen, a lifetime of memories swam before her, she pulled herself together. Not assuming anything about the reason for the contact, she resorted to rank. “Ensign Vesper?” “Yes, Sir, Dr,, Aim….Admiral” ~keep it together man!~ Aimee smiled kindly. “Aimee will be fine, all things considered. Just so I can get my brain in the right gear, is this business or personal?” ~Aimee, Aimee is good stick with Aimee~ “Well Sir its, sorry Aimee, its business. I have the results for Commander Williams which I can send to you now, but this is more about the trial thats happening on earth. The nanoprobe trial, I would like permission to extend it to the Exeter and to Trip, I believe it could work, based on the data available.” Aimee inhaled pensively and leaned back in her chair. “Send me the data.” Gabe pressed the button and transmitted the data he had. “You should have it now,” “Computer, open file and display.” Aimee said before manipulating the holographic image, a lifetime of experience moving her hands, her eyes squinting closely at the image. “Oh...good catch Gabe. The signs are there, but they’re really subtle.” “His body is reproducing the markers everytime the biofilters in the transporters remove them, so i think that may be why its been missed. Hes transported in then gone for his medical, his body has only just started to reproduce things so its well below any threshold. Since he’s been on the Exeter for a while and not using transporters his body has produced them at a higher rate, meaning they were visible; still below the threshold but there. His Batazed brain has somehow strengthened his bodies resilience, meaning we dont see any physical effects.” Aimee nodded. “Good hypothesis. Funny thing...wrong word perhaps but bear with me...Funny thing hybridism as I’m sure you’re aware, we’re only just scratching the surface of understanding. Now, the Williams twins are interesting, the sister was always more heavily Betazed than human, apart from a serious blood condition, Trip, we always assumed leaned more toward Human. Now though...this. Lets say we go ahead with this, the areas of the brain near where we’re looking at, you are aware of what affect a nanite repair will have on those?” “Thats what the extended control chip is for, it will link with his empathic abilities and channel them through to the nanites. They wont touch the brain, it will be off limits in terms of control. The nanoprobes will seek and destroy the tuc-a cells and markers in Trips blood stream, removing the disease. The control chip will then hyperstimulate the brain into repairing its self, as it has so far. I hypothesise that eventually the brains own abilities will prevent the markers from being produced. The data from the trials has shown a high success rate in telepathic races. I agree, this is a hybrid situation which is why I want to trial the brain stimuli aswell as the physical side.” Gabe wasnt trying to be smart, he had spent all night pouring over the data, the results and controlled samples, he knew they could be onto something. Aimee nodded and smiled, glad that he’d had the sense to come to her with a complete picture, with all the data and evidence already in place. “I’ve spent twenty years working with this, at first fighting to even get someone to read the hypothesis that we had back then; working with Borg tech...what were we thinking. Then we were fighting the federation itself as it turned itself inwards. You make a reasonable case...but…” “If I may” ~youre brave cutting an Admiral off~ Gabe stood and picked a picture up that was out of view. “I’ve been reading logs recently, trying to understand things, There was a doctors, log must be about 30 odd years ago now, he spoke about chance. The ability of changing someones life, by taking that risk. We work in medicine, if we stubb our toes we know its going to hurt, if we cut someone its going to bleed. But if i administer a treatment there is only a chance of it working; we’ve come a long way since dad recorded that, but hes right. We hypothesise, test, scan, trace, all we want, but unless we risk that chance we’ll never save someones life, make that impact, or remove that shrapnel. Let me take the risk, prolonged trial, the Exeter is weeks away from our mission, lets take that risk that you and dad took.” Gabe looked into the screen, put down the picture to face the screen and pulled his labcoat around; he didnt intend to use this, but the moment felt right. Aimee smiled, her eyes warm, but sad. “We were all so young back then. Young...kids...barely out of the Academy just like yourselves. I remember him saying that to me that day. Your Dad was a very good Doctor, but I was always the better surgeon. He made me practise the whole operation three times before operating on your mum. For many reasons I left the ship after that, I lost touch with Ash...your mum. I always liked her, good officer, fine engineer. The coat’s too small,” smiling though, she carried on. “Looks good on you. You have his determination I’ll give you that.” “I need to get it lengthened, but I cant bring myself to change it. Apparently I have his bedside manner as well. Everything is very odd and im sure we all need to make amends and lay to rest some ghosts. But the trial?” Gabe was desperate to learn if she would let him make history. She smiled. “I don’t like the words ‘taking risk’ but you’re right. Permission granted. I want to be kept in the loop all the way. Two things though…” she said good naturedly, her eyes warm and amused. “Sir?” “That’s your one shot with Emotional blackmail, and second…” “It was worth the risk” Gabe laughed warming to her. “I’ll bet my daughter is really cross with you for getting a shot at this before her.” She laughed openly. “She hasnt said, but I didnt ask. I thought it best not to, her temper is something else.” Gabe sat back down. “Look after Trip. Him and his family mean the world to ours.” Looking across at the two pictures, the crew of the Hades and the holiday he looked back at Aimee. “He’s family too, extended but family.” Aimee nodded. “Take some advice. Enjoy your time now while you can, it goes by awfully fast. You have a lovely picture of a crew from 30 years ago, get one of yourselves, now. Soon enough the next 30 years will pass and you may be sat here being blackmailed by the next generation after you.” “Well I hope Ronnie takes the chance…” Suddenly realising who he was talking to “Sorry Aimee, Ronnie Winters gave me the heads up about the trial, shes proving to be very special and very useful. I’ll not blackmail you again and I’ll get the photo. “I was only teasing, I know that blackmail is the wrong word.” SHe looked puzzled, I don’t know Ronnie, I’m sure Ailynn may have mentioned her.” Looking at the woman he could see why people warmed to her, she certainly gave off a motherly vibe, one he was drawn to. “I’ll bare it in mind, thank you Aimee, apparently I’ll get to see you at Christmas, unless I happen to assimilate Trip” Gabe let laugh out at his own joke unsure how she would take it. Aimee laughed. “Please don’t. That would take some explaining. Look. I have to go, another meeting I’m afraid, but keep me posted, and pass on my love to...well... pretty much everyone it seems these days.” “I will do Sir, Vespers out.” “Good luck Ensign. Bracken out.” (Reply None) (Posted by Mat & Mark) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Armoury - aCoS Ens SG Paul Sleeford – 08:30) Walking into the armoury Sleeford nodded to the CPO sitting at the small desk, placing his hand on the panel he waited for the computer to identify him and allow access, walking in he lifted his PADD and turned the first rifle to the side and read off the number. Looking down the rack he sighed quietly and turned the next one. ~One of the joys of being assistant COS I suppose, I get the boring jobs ~ Sleeford smiled at the thought, he could have passed the job down the line but this was something he had to do himself. Whistling the opening few bars of Copeland’s ‘Fanfare for the common man’ as he walked among the racks of weapons, checking off the numbers. Pausing he stared at the weapons for several seconds. Tapping a few commands he frowned slightly, walking back to the desk he looked down at the CPO. “Chief, is the range free around 10:00 hours?” Looking at his screen the CPO tapped a few commands, “Yes sir, you want to book it?” “yes, book it for6 people. “ Pressing is thumb against the screen Sleeford confirmed the booking. Walking back to the racks he selected 6 rifles and 6 each mark 1 and 2 hand held’s, placing his selected weapons on a sled Sleeford transported them to the range. Entering he pushed the sled into the corner near the door, turning to the panel he tapped a few commands, turning to face the room he looked at the range of holographic targets sitting at the ranges 100, 200 and 300 meters. Tapping his badge Sleeford called the required attendees, “Sleeford to Ensigns More and Smith and Petty Officer Sytuk, report to range 2 at 0955.” (Reply More, Smith, Sytuk) While he waited Sleeford selected a rifle from the sled and approached the firing point, shouldering the rifle he pulled it to the aim and sighted down the length of the weapon, gently squeezing the trigger he fired his first shot in 30 months, looking at the fall of shot he lined up and fired off another couple of shoots. “Computer run program Sleeford Alpha and record scores for reclassification.” Waiting while the range reconfigured and a new set of targets appeared. Shouldering the rifle Sleeford fired and watched as the target disappeared. Placing the rifle back on the sled he selected a hand held and continued his requals. Lowering the weapon Sleeford took a deep breath, “Computer score?” [score for lane one is.....87% hit rate, with 3 missed shots. Reclassification on the mark 3 rifle passed. Hit rate for mark 2 is 98% Reclassification passed ] (posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0831) It was a slow morning for Trip, he had settled into a bit of a routine and things were going well. He'd go to bed around 22:00 if he could swing it, wake up around 0530, go to the gym around 0545 get an hour workout in, though he had to be careful with running and leg lifts, doctors order. Afterwards he'd return home around 0600, shower, have breakfast with Ash, be on the bridge by 0800, then saunter into the Ready Room at 0815 to check up on messages. He was running a little bit late today. He slept in a bit, just nervousness about going in to see his results. Nothing a little bit extra sleep couldn't fix. As he sat down to check his messages, there was one he wasn't expecting from his sister Sy. Given the priority code, he knew he needed to listen to it right away, and this was the best time. When he saw the time it was sent, he regretted not getting to it sooner, but he had taken something to help him sleep and hadn't heard it come in. =/\="Hey older brother.=/\= Her voice was soft, weak, distressed. =/\=I know you won't be thrilled that this is audio only, but trust me, I look awful and it's been a night. I went to bed on time and while I was supposed to be asleep, myself and a number of other people got kidnapped by a Q.=/\= ~The Q?~ Trip wondered if she had just had a weird dream, but as he listened on, regardless of whether Trip believed her or not, she believed it, and that was good enough for him. =/\=My part of it was absolutely horrible. Q had a lot that he wanted to let me know apparently, some of it by letting someone carve into my body with an old fashioned scalpel. I've been seen by Dr. Solice, I'm not in danger. I'm just not ok. I'm going to need to see a counselor. I'm not really able to talk about what Q did to me, maybe if you were here to hold me I could, just share them with you telepathically. I.. Trip... some of the visions he showed me were of the ranch dead, with mom and dad and the kids and everything just dessicated and gone, like the weather modification systems had been permanently destroyed. That was bad, but there were other parts that were worse. I hope that we can meet up when we get to Bajor and that you don't mind holding me for a bit. I know this is too short, but give Layla a pet from me and say hi to Rissa. Give Ash a hug. =/\= Trip activated the comm to begin a video recording. He didn't have time for a full call, with an appointment with Doctor Vesper at 0900. "Hey sis," he said with brotherly concern in his voice. "Sorry for not getting to this sooner, it's been a crazy few days for me too. Not Q crazy. I do hope you're ok. Sorry I couldn't open a channel, I have a doctor's appointment soon, and I can't miss it, and this feels like a long conversation. The thing is, he's a trickster, not a fortune teller. He pushes, he pushes as if we were game pieces on a board. I know it was traumatic, and I'm glad you're ok. I can't imagine what that must have felt like, and I'm not going to pry, just like you asked. I'll wait until the next time we see each other again. Which hopefully is soon. I know Quinna will take good care of you. I miss you Sy, and don't worry, I'll tell Rissa you said hello, I'll give Ash a hug, and I'll give Layla an extra treat from Auntie Sy. I love you sis, and when we see each other again, I will hold you extra close and extra tight. I wish there was something more I could do now, but other than let you know I'm here for you and thinking about you." Trip paused, he had hoped to not tell her yet, but in that moment, he just felt, no he knew, he needed to be honest with her. "Hey, I wanted to wait until we saw each other in person to say this, but, I guess, well something in me thinks that I should tell you. So, apparently I have ummm, will this is hard to say." Trip paused again, "I have Early onset dementia. It was caught on my physical. And well, yeah, its treatable, should not be a problem. Well I hope not. I don't know. I had a full scan yesterday, so, I'll get the results. I'm not scared, just....worried... you know about long term, and passing it on. I have read some studies that apparently it is rare but not completely unknown, for some Betazoid/Human Hybrids, especially those like me whose genetics favor more the human side, to have long dormant genetic predispositions for dementia awaken. At least according to the articles I read yesterday. I needed to get my head around it. I guess you have your blood incompatibility, and I've got, a umm, brain incompatibility. You always were the smarter one." Trip let out a little laugh to ease the tension. "Look, I'm gonna be fine. And you're going to be fine. And when we both get to Bajor, we can just spend a whole day together. Anyways, I love you sis. Sorry I have to cut this short, I need to go to the doc and go over my test results. I love you very much. I'll send videos of Layla doing tricks when I can. And Sy, I'm sorry I'm not there to hold you. But in the interim, I'm sending you a holodeck program I just finished. It's a perfect recreation of the pond back on the ranch, complete with canoes, hammocks, and the gazeebo. I hope you like it." Trip then attached the program to the recording file. "Gotta run, love you." He closed the recording and stood up. "Computer, end transmission and send, priority 1. Code Trip 5025, Duke Skylar 3." He then left to go face the music with Doctor Vesper. (reply none) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Quarters - TAC Ens JG Stan More – 08:32) Stan was trying to sleep. However a small female ball of fur on four legs. Had decided to be her masters alarm clock. She pulled on his bed sheet. The more he ignored her. The more determined growls, emanated from her mouth as she pulled even harder. “ Lillian......” He whispered “ Grrrrrrrrr! “ Came her reply “ LILLIAN!” He said a little louder. “ Grrrrrrr! “ She repeated. Tugging on his bed sheet even harder. “ ENOUGH ALREADY.” He let go of the blanket. Which vanished to the bottom of the bed , with a surprised squeak. Just then Sleeford called =/\= “ Sleeford to Ensigns More and Smith and Petty Officer Sytuk, report to range 2 at 0955.” =/\= “ I’ll be there.” He reported. (posted by Norman) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper, CO - Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 09:00) The doors opened and Gabe watched Trip walk in. He stood and walked out the office to meet him. “Just this way sir. Nurse Silvine, we’re not to be disturbed.” Trip followed Gabe into his office. Not saying a word. He could sense from Gabe that he had been run ragged over the last 48 hours. “Understood sir” The Bolian said as both the officers went into Gabes office. Pointing to the seat Gabe allowed Trip to sit before sitting himself. Today was a good day, he had spent the night working things out and having spoken to SFMHQ he was positive of the news. “Well then Doc, what's the verdict.” Trip wanted to bring Ash with him, but he had decided to go alone. Seeing her face at his exam yesterday, he would rather tell her himself and soften any blow that he might need to. Clasping his hands Gabe allowed the air to settle, there was a feeling of more encouragement in the room, a feeling that Gabe was riding. Thinking back to the night with Ronnie, he was thankful she had said what she did. The woman may never know how much of an impact on Trip she would have; she would never know she now had a connection with him and saved his life. Picking up a PADD Gabe gave a warm smile “Sir, I have your diagnosis, its what we think; but lets not focus on that, you've had two days of worry. I would like to give you the better news, a treatment of sorts is available. It comes with its own concerns as with any treatment; but the risks far outweigh the challenges you will face without it.” It was in that moment were for the first time in days Trip felt like the indestructible 23 year old he had felt before the launch. The Risk taker, the speed junkie, the fighter pilot. He knew in his heart of hearts that after this he would need to be more careful, more health conscious, more cognizant of his own mortality. But for now, in this moment, he didn’t care about risk. “Let’s do it.” “Sir, you dont know what the risks are, I cant poss….” Gabe was cut off. “I don’t need to know the risks, if this is going to help, if you think that this is the best treatment out there, if the pros outweigh the cons, then lets do it.” “Sir, with the greatest of respect, will you listen. The last few days have been a whirlwind of emotions and a lot to take in, but you simply cannot say engage to this without weighing the options; this is not your bridge, this is my sickbay and you are my patient; lets understand that now.” “Fine.” “Its borg technology” “So, what, am I going to get assimilated? Has this been tested before? Break it down for me will, ya. Pros and cons, what are the pros and cons of this treatment versus the traditional one.” Sliding the PADD across the desk he gave Trip a moment to read the information. “You would be a test case, this is a new treatment thats come out of the research from the artifact. I say new, it was used for treatment on The Voayger but theres been a little resurgence now. We will implant a chip in the top of your spine connected to your brain. Then nano-probes will be injected into your body, these will work as an immune system seeking out (as lead by the chip) and removing any regenerating cells. In a sense your body is assimilating the disease.” Gabe activated the small terminal on his desk to show the results of the trial and to allow him to show the holographic process. Trip tried to follow along but it was a tad bit confusing for the non medically inclined. “There has been some tests. As it happens, the results of the first set of trials are being released this month. You could be the next wave, however, I want to enhance the trial. Your batazoid brain is currently blocking the effects of the disease which I believe is why youre not showing symptoms and why this has been missed for all these years. If you would allow me to enhance the abilities, short term, through the chip, I believe we can eradicate whatever is regenerating the cells.” "Enhance in what way? But just temporary right? I don't have the best history with them." "Enhance your ability to control your brainwaves along the synaptic plasticity, I would like to see if we could focus your telepathic abilities to connect with the nano-probes,bypass the interface so you can rely less on external technology to control your condition." "What does this mean long term, like children?" “It means, when you have children there will be a 82% chance they wont carry the gene; currently there is a 62% chance they will carry it. What youre doing now, is saving your next generation, whilst giving yourself the best chance of a normal life.” "What are the risks?" "We've been using some of this tech for years, but in your case this will be a long term effort. The samples are short term, we don't know how this will present itself in the five, ten years. Computer simulations show a strong probability of it working, but like anything... extenuating circumstances." "Does the surgeon general approve of this treatment?" "Admiral Bracken has given it the green light; she wants me to oversee it but to ensure she's kept in the loop. Whilst the trials are happening on earth, we are allowed to conduct your part of the trial on the Exeter." "If miss Aimee thinks that this is an appropriate procedure then… I think I want to proceed. I trust the Bracken clan with my life. And that includes you." Gabe laughed a little, it was odd to know he had extended family now. "Thank you Trip, this won't be a quick fix. Your body is somehow protecting you, I'll give it a boost. In the meantime, I would like you to wear a neural interface,small enough now to fit in the location of where the implant would be. The data gathered would help form the bases of your treatment. “When do you expect we will be able to start the surgery. Sorry I’m not trying to rush. I guess you could say I’m just anxious.” "That's completely understandable, we do need to do to complete a trial and I would like to run several simulations" “Like I get these things take time, but you know, having a specific date, helps me get mentally prepared.” "We could start the trial within a few days, I get the results from Earth tomorrow to analyse and then I could start with you. All things well….within the month we could be ready to proceed." “Alright, well just call me when it’s time. And I’ll be ready. I appreciate this doctor. More than you probably know.” "Let's get the tests done before you get too excited." Gabe laughed awkwardly “Is there anything else that I should be aware of?” "Just take it easy." “Thank you doctor. I will.” Trip then shook the doctor’s hand and made his way back to the bridge. (reply none) (posted by Will and Mat H.) (USS Exeter - Shooting - ACTO Ensign SG Paul Sleeford - 09:54) As the others began to wander in Sleeford waited until they were all there and nodded. “Okay since we have a bit of time before we get to Bajor, I thought we’d get the boring stuff done first.” (Reply More, Smith, Sytuk) (posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter – Shooting Range - TAC Ens JG Stan More – 09:55) At 09:55 Stan arrived. He nodded at the others and signed in. Sleeford waited until they were all there and nodded. “Okay since we have a bit of time before we get to Bajor, I thought we’d get the boring stuff done first.” Stan looked at the rack behind Sleeford. One word began to bounce around his head. Guns! “ Are those the new phaser riffles? “ Stan asked (Reply Sleeford , Smith, Sytuk) “ Sorry. To be honest only really used hand ones. Never got to fire one of those bad boys off until now.” More explained. (Reply More, Smith, Sytuk) “ Well. If you guys go first. I’ll watch and get acquainted with me new friend. You show me how it’s done.” said as Stan as he received a Phaser Rifle. (Reply Sleeford , Smith, Sytuk) (Posted by Norman) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range - TAC. P03 Sutuk – 0957) Sytuk entered the firing range section of deck 8. He was interested to say the least. This was a true chance to observe his fellow crew members and how they handled themselves with a firearm. “ Sorry. To be honest only really used hand ones. Never got to fire one of those bad boys off until now.” More explained. “ Well. If you guys go first. I’ll watch and get acquainted with me new friend. You show me how it’s done.” Stan said . Sytuk thought for a moment, before quickly walking over to weapons rack and grabbing a rifle and quickly slapping its power cell in. He walked over to Ensign More. " Sir I would be happy to assist you with the ride" ( reply more , or any ) Sytuk held his rifle up to Stan. " There are 16 settings on a standard type 3 phaser. With fully adjustable phaser intensities and wields. " Sytuk explained pointing to the phaser rifles control pad. ( reply stan, any) " I prefer Setting 9 , phase bolt rapid spread, it gets the job done fast but it can cook the power cell if used to long. So I make sure to carry back ups." Sytuk remarked. He could hit the targets if he wanted to Sytuk had nearly 16 years of experience in weapons use , but he figured it would be better to help a fellow remember that to do what was natural to him and that was to walk in eliminate targets and walk away. ( reply all in the range) ( posted by Davis) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range - TAC/SEC - Ens. Stan More – 10:00 ) Stan looked around the firing range and gun racks. He felt like he was a kid again. In Mrs Mc Clouds sweet shop on a Saturday morning , in Edinburgh. Jumping up and down with glee. As the old lady filled his pockets. With tasty sugary items children love. Sytuk walked over to Ensign More. " Sir I would be happy to assist you with the ride" ( reply any ) “ Thanks. I’m a wee bit rusty on this type of phaser riffle.” Stan admitted. Sytuk held his rifle up to Stan. " There are 16 settings on a standard type 3 phaser. With fully adjustable phaser intensities and wields. " Sytuk explained pointing to the phaser rifles control pad. “ I see. 16 settings. That’s quite a few quite a few. Do you have any preference?” Stan asked Sytuk ( reply any) " I prefer Setting 9 , phase bolt rapid spread, it gets the job done fast but it can cook the power cell if used to long. So I make sure to carry back ups." Sytuk remarked. Stan looked through the rifles targeting scope. The display picked out a target. “ That sounds bonny indeed. Tell me can this scope be altered? “ Stan asked. ( Reply, Sytuk , Any ) “ Sorry. It’s just you can only carry a certain number of power cells. So if we are using setting 9, phaser bolt rapid spread. It may be a bit prudent. To make sure we hit our targets quickly.” Stan explained ( Reply, Sytuk , Any ) “ I know. As a yellow top. It comes with the job.” Stan agreed. ( Reply, Sytuk , Any ) ( Posted by:- Norman ) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – aCoS Ens SG Paul Sleeford – 10:01) Standing in at the table preparing his rifle for the requalification test Sleeford half listened as Sytuk instructed More in the finer points of the Mk 3 phaser rifle. Sytuk walked over to Ensign More. " Sir I would be happy to assist you with the ride” “ Thanks. I’m a wee bit rusty on this type of phaser riffle.” Stan admitted. Sytuk held his rifle up to Stan. " There are 16 settings on a standard type 3 phaser. With fully adjustable phaser intensities and wields. " Sytuk explained pointing to the phaser rifles control pad. “ I see. 16 settings. That’s quite a few quite a few. Do you have any preference?” Stan asked Sytuk " I prefer Setting 9 , phase bolt rapid spread, it gets the job done fast but it can cook the power cell if used to long. So I make sure to carry backups." Sytuk remarked. “ That sounds bonny indeed. Tell me can this scope be altered? “ Stan asked. Sleeford smiled at More’s enthusiasm, “Unfortunately not, however if you’re lucky enough to fire the TR 116 rifle, they have a eyepiece that allows you to target the weapon. It’s an fascinating question Stan” “ Sorry. It’s just you can only carry a certain number of power cells. So if we are using setting 9, phaser bolt rapid spread. It may be a bit prudent. To make sure we hit our targets quickly.” Stan explained Sleeford laughed slightly, “That’s why we do he boring drills, so we can do it without thinking. The old marine maxim applies, train hard, fight easy.” “ I know. As a yellow top. It comes with the job.” Stan agreed. “Okay grab yourselves a rifle each, and approach the firing line, its standard requalification practise, 10 targets each at 300, 200 and 100, then 30 at 25 with a hand held. Any questions?”; Pausing Sleeford waited, he knew it was standard but you asked anyway, because the day you didn’t , the consequences would be unbearable.; “Okay feel free to critique each other and be warned I give as good as I get, so don’t take offence.” (Reply any) Stepping forward Sleeford slipped his right arm through the sling and twisted it underneath, placing the rifle in his shoulder he leaned in slightly and pulled the weapon tight into his shoulder. “Computer begin requalification program Sleeford Alpha, one” (reply any) As the firing progressed Sleeford watched as the others went through their drills, Sytuk as he expected was doing well, More only just behind him with Smith coming in a close third. Smiling he knew that he would be happy to go into a fire fight with these three people. As the firing finished Sleeford turned to the small wall mounted screen to check the scores. “Okay folks, scores on the doors. PO Sytuk 99%, well done. Ensigns More and Smith 87%, Ensign Sleeford 91%. Okay I’m please to say your all qualified, congrats and all. “ (reply any) (Posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – Tac. PO3 Sytuk Ryakna (SPC)– 10:06) “Okay grab yourselves a rifle each, and approach the firing line, its standard requalification practise, 10 targets each at 300, 200 and 100, then 30 at 25 with a hand held. Any questions?” Sytuk stood ready at the firing line his phaser rifle, his left hand on the trigger. On his right hip he had a type 2 hand phaser holstered. Sytuk had no questions, he knew what he needed to do. His phaser rifle strap was resting firmly on his right shoulder. “Okay feel free to critique each other and be warned I give as good as I get, so don’t take offence.” “Computer begin requalification program Sleeford Alpha, one” Ensign Sleeford said to the computer Sytuk took took two shots at the 300 target,followed by 4 shots at 100 target. He switched his target back to the 300 target for 3 more shots then readjusted his aim swiftly to the 200 target, instead of a solid continues beam, he switched to the phaser bolt rapid fire setting fire a barrage of phaser bolts at the target 10 shots hit 2 missed . He quickly switched to the normal phaser setting and fored back and forth between the 100 and 300 target. His upper body remained locked tight while he pivoted from his hips firing each shot between the two remaining targets ~ one one, two two, three three, four four, five five , and six ~ he though to himself has he eliminated the two remaining targets. Almost instantaneous with the last shot fired he released the rifle allowing it to fall to his left side , his shoulder strap stopping it from hitting the floor . In one swift motion he grabbed his type 2 from his right hip and began firing at 25 meter target, it wasnt long before he fired all 30 shots. Standing at the firing line. Sytuk found the hardest part of this simulation was not advancing toward the targets as he fired at them. He holstered his phaser and turned to the others. “Okay folks, scores on the doors. PO Sytuk 99%, well done. Ensigns More and Smith 87%, Ensign Sleeford 91%. Okay I’m please to say your all qualified, congrats and all. “ Sleeford remarked . Sytuk tried forcing himself to feel pleased. He knew it was right but he couldn't feel the feeling of being pleased. This was due to his difficulty in making emotional connections to people. He looked at Ensigns Smith, More Sleeford . Had they been his targets he would of saved the Smith and more for last while focusing on eliminating Sleeford first. As Sytuk thought about his hand gripped his type 3 rifle very tight. Sytuk looked down at his hand and loosened his grip. He walked his rifle back to the weapons rack and placed it back where it belonged. He turned to Ensign More. " You did very well, be proud of yourself Sir." ( reply more) ( reply any in the range) (Posted by Davis SPC. PO3 SYTUK ) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 –– Firing Range – TAC/SEC Ens.Stan More 10:10) Okay grab yourselves a rifle each, and approach the firing line, its standard requalification practise, 10 targets each at 300, 200 and 100, then 30 at 25 with a hand held. Any questions?” There was an old tradition on Earth. For soldiers to name their rifles. This stemmed from when the drill Sargent. Would order the new cadets. To all but sleep with their weapons. So they would take extra care of the rifles. Then when they went into battle. They had a good chance of ending the day. Without any life draining holes in them. Stan felt he should name his phase rifle. But he would have to return it after , the target practice. Finding it again would be a problem , as they all looked the same. “Okay feel free to critique each other and be warned I give as good as I get, so don’t take offence.” Stan didn’t think as a new member of the crew. Criticising his fellow officers was a good idea. “Computer begin requalification program Sleeford Alpha, one” Ensign Sleeford said to the computer Stan’s turn came up. Things did not go well to begin with. Stan missed a few targets. His main problem was simple. He just wasn’t used to firing a phaser rifle. Holding it against his shoulder. Using the targeting site to hit a target. Up until now he had used hand phasers. Just make sure you had wright setting. Point and shoot. He finally got into his stride. But all to soon the last target was hit and it was over. This was it. Bad score. Off the team. He knew it. Shaking he put the rifle back in the rack. “Okay folks, scores on the doors. PO Sytuk 99%, well done. Ensigns More and Smith 87%, Ensign Sleeford 91%. Okay I’m please to say your all qualified, congrats and all. “ Sleeford remarked . Stan’s jaw dropped. He had passed! 87% He shook Smith’s hand. Sytuk turned to Ensign More. " You did very well, be proud of yourself Sir." “ Wow. Ouch! Thank yer. I dinna...... did not expect that. You did well. 99% is excellent” He told Sytuk (Reply Sytuk, Any ) “ I was nee scared. It’s just up until now I have been using these wee things.” He told them pointing to a hand phaser. (Reply Sytuk ,Any ) “ I’ll bear that in mind. Thanks “ He told them. ( Reply, Sytuk , Any ) ( Posted by:- Norman ) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1330) This was hard for Jaelle she wasn't used to humbling herself before people. She was used to being obeyed. Staying in a position of authority and only making arguments when she knew she was right. She still could figure it out. Where did a simple check up go so wrong, it wasn't like her to be so defensive. Entering the medical bay. She walked up to the first person she could find. "Excuse me I need to speak to Dr. Vesper." She stated waiting for the man appear. (Reply Vesper.) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper - 1331) A young orderly pulled Gabes attention from the cupboard he was in. "Sir Lt Foxglove is here for you" "Oh you've got to be kidding me. What does she want now" Gabe yelled half flustered and half annoyed that once again he would have to face down this rather annoying woman. "Sir?" "I'll come out" he said pulling his uniform and labcoat to order. "Do you need me to get anything?" "A phaser" Gabe said heading to the door leaving the ordlery very confused. "Lt Foxglove, how can I help?" (Reply Foxglove) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1333) "Lt. Foxglove, how can I help?" He clearly didn't want to see her darkening his doorway again so soon. "I wanted to talk if your not busy?" She asked softly, as she motioned to his office. (Reply Vesper) Once they were safely behind closed doors. She continued to stand. She didn't want to give off the impression that she wanted to monopolize his time. "I know you're busy so I get right to the point. I'm sorry," she spoke softly and from the heart knowing that she had to make things right. "I understand that you were only looking out for my wellbeing, and my behavior was not what it should have been. My personal feelings should have better kept in check and you didn't need to bear the brunt of my rudness." She spoke her piece. She knew the Dr. was busy and she turned to leave. (Reply Vesper, iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1335) Allowing Jaelle to lead the way into his office Gabe remained standing behind his desk as the suprior officer hadnt sat, despite being offered. "How can I help sir" "I know you're busy so I get right to the point. I'm sorry," she spoke softly and from the heart knowing that she had to make things right. "I understand that you were only looking out for my wellbeing, and my behavior was not what it should have been. My personal feelings should have better kept in check and you didn't need to bear the brunt of my rudness." She spoke her piece. She knew the Dr. was busy and she turned to leave. "Hang on a second, since we are talking openly. I shouldnt have snapped, it wasnt right. I've spent the day hearing how people excuse poor health, injuries and you dont want to know. Crew that should know better thinking its ok to risk their life for a thrill. Im sorry. (Reply Foxglove) "Im not trying to control you, youre not an experiment. I'm trying to protect you." (Reply Foxglove) (Reply Foxglove, iyw) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Medical - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1336) Hang on a second, since we are talking openly. I shouldnt have snapped, it wasnt right. I've spent the day hearing how people excuse poor health, injuries and you dont want to know. Crew that should know better thinking its ok to risk their life for a thrill. Im sorry." She turned and smiled. "Trust me if I can find another way not to risk my life I will." "Im not trying to control you, youre not an experiment. I'm trying to protect you." She then turned serious. "But if it means protecting the crew of this ship, then I hope your up to the task..." She let her voice trail off. "Like I said I'm sorry and I'm sorry I caught you on an off day. Also I went to the Counselor we have an active dialog many things to work out. But it will do me good in the long run. Thank you for your concern." She was sincere, she wanted to be better. (Reply Vesper) "If there is nothing else. I will leave you to your busy day. I will make sure to come by for a medical screening before and after every away mission, to include psych. eval. Not because you ordered me to do so." She said playfully "But rather because its the right thing to do." She voice softened. "Again Thank you for looking after me, and all of us for that matter." (Reply Vesper) She turned to leave, a stunned Gabe Vesper in his office. Today was going to be a good day and she wasn't going to let anything stand in her way. (Reply Vesper, iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Medical - CMO - Ens Gave Vesper - 1337) "But if it means protecting the crew of this ship, then I hope your up to the task..." She let her voice trail off. "Like I said I'm sorry and I'm sorry I caught you on an off day. Also I went to the Counselor we have an active dialog many things to work out. But it will do me good in the long run. Thank you for your concern." She sounded sincere. "Aside from the Captain, I am the only officer with an oath to protect and maintain the physical and mental wellbeing of the crew, I have to be up to the job." Gabe replied trying not to sound off. "If there is nothing else. I will leave you to your busy day. I will make sure to come by for a medical screening before and after every away mission, to include psych. eval. Not because you ordered me to do so."But rather because its the right thing to do." Her voice softened. "Again Thank you for looking after me, and all of us for that matter." "Youre welcome, I think." Gabe watched as Jaelle left, he didnt really know how to take the encounter. (Reply none) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – Ensign – Greta Smith / Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams – 2230) Ire entered the quarters that he and Greta shared. It was a standard Starfleet design for a department head. It even had a bath and a shower, although he preferred the shower it was sometimes nice to soak in the bathtub, but it was not really long enough to stretch out in. “Any one home?” Stepping out of the shower, Greta wrapped a towel around her and yelled, "Be there in a minute. " Ire smiled as he went over to the sofa and dropped on to it. “Don’t worry, take your time.” Drying her hair a little as she walked out, still in her bath hair, Greta smiled, "Hey handsome. " Ire smiled. “Hay gorgeous. How was your day?” "Long, boring and just a bit dirty, hence the shower." She smiled softly, walked to his side and kissed his cheek, "how about you?" He kissed her back “Well I did not crash the ship which was good. It's still funny flying something so big compared to Lucky Thirteen. ” "I miss that some days. But, at least one of us still flies. Let me go get some clothes on. Be right back." She smirked as she walked into the bedroom. “Okay.” he stretched his back , feeling the popping down his spine as he moved. He closed his eyes and rested his head for a moment as he body relaxed into a different position. Walking out of the bedroom in comfy pyjamas, Greta smiled at the sight of Ire relaxed on the couch. Feeling mischievous, she crept to his side and sat on his lap, laughing, "So, sleepy are we?" Ire opened his eyes to see Greta and smiled. “Well not now but maybe time for that later if we can still keep our eyes open.” "Wow, time for that? " she sat next to him, "schedule the appointment then." “Well I am head of department now, not just a squadron leader. I have to make sure that I set an example. I can’t go on shift with no sleep and exhausted. What type of example would it show to the others.” He grinned at her. "Suppose…", she looked away. He paused for a moment and his tired mind replayed what she had just said. “Schedule what appointment?” "Just feels like we lost that spontaneity. But, new ship, you being a boss now… You do still…." She turned away slightly. He leaned over and pulled her close to him. “Yes I am sorry that I have been such a kill joy. Its not that I don’t want to be spontaneous its just……………. I want to spend time with you that’s not just saying good morning and good evening. It should all calm down a bit when we get settled and I for one won’t be so all over the place.” "You're always all over the place. You need to learn to pick up your laundry mister." She smiled softly. “Well it's hardly fair as with the size of some of your laundry there is not much to pick up” He teased gently. "Oh… really? You going there? Well, then…" she grinned, "get what you deserve. " and she started tickling him. He tried to fend her off but it was a futile attempt as her fingers found their target and the started to giggle and then laugh “Stop it, stop it, that’s just mean. I can’t defend myself with your sneak attack.” "Defend yourself!" Greta said with a laugh as she leant back, ready for another attack. He took her bait and knew that it was as he leaned forward. “Take that.” he laughed as he darted one hand out to try and get her ticklish spot and tried to sneak the other in under the diversion. Laughing, Greta smiled widely, "so how come you are so late getting back?" “Was down in engineering talking Keria about this quantum slipstream drive. I wanted to get a better understanding of how it would affect the flight performance of the Exeter….. Ow that reminds me she gave me the exquisite survival knife that she had made herself.” "She made you one too?" “Really she did say that she had made some for her pilot friends. You show me yours and I’ll show you mine.” Smirking, Greta stood up and winked, "maybe later mister." She walked into the bedroom and came back with a small fabric wrapped parcel and sat next to him. "She… made me this. A Scottish dagger." Handing him the parcel, "I felt so… I didn't know what to say." “I know what you mean. It's not something that I would have expected for a present but she had put so much time and effort getting it perfect even how she inscribed mine.” "We need to do something for them. I can't make knives but I can cook." Ire nodded and to his small box out of the draw beside the door and sat back. “Ow definitely. I got the feeling that she was not expecting anything in return but that’s not the point.” He opened the box and took out the knife. He looked at it for a moment before showing her. “It's got the Exeter crest and inscribed as well as having been made with ore from bajor and mars.” "Ire, that's gorgeous. " she replied, lifting the blade from its box. "Perfect balance too." She said, holding the blade in her hand. “Just need to make sure I don’t poke a hole in anything.” he smiled. “What is yours like?” "Take a look, it's a Scottish dagger made from ore on Mars with a bone handle. My dad…. He had one just like it." She said softly, looking away for a moment. He looked at the dagger she was showing him. “It looks beautiful.” He ran his finger across the bone handle and along the side of the blade. He then reached out and placed a reassuring hand on her arm and gave her a gentle smile. “You okay?” "Yeah… just thinking. I have no-one to walk me down the aisle when we get married. “He may not be there physically but I am sure that he will be there in spirit.” "I know." She replied as she keant into him, resting her head on his shoulder. “It could be worse you could have my aunty turn up.” "Being honest, she kind of scares me." Greta responded, taking his hand in hers. “What an autonomous advanced artificial intelligence what’s not to like.” He grinned at her. “She may be a little bit odd but she means well and her decades of exposure to humans and other races means that she understands that not every one if happy with her presence.” "I mean…. What if she doesn't like me? What if she thinks I'm not good enough…" she wondered, turning over Ire's hand looking at his ring next to hers. “There is no way she would not like you. You are a wonderful person. She wants what is best for me and being with you is what I want more than anything else in the galaxy.” "Parents don't always see that though. My mom loves you. She actually said that you keep me from going crazy." “Your mum is nice to say that but it's totally the other way around I can assure you. You are the one that keeps me sane. I would have cracked way before now.” "I think my mom has a bit of a crush on you." Greta replied with a smile. He blushed slightly “Me I don’t know why anyway I am far too young for her.” "Because you were too cute when she was telling you about the Loch Ness monster. Trying to work out what race it could be and suggesting first contact." Greta teased. Ire grinned. “Well I guess that's what happens when you grow up in space and assume that every monster is an alien looking for first contact.” "You are just too cute, Mister Williams." She replied, kissing his cheek softly. “Well thank you. Mrs Smith.” he grinned back "Let's go to bed." (Reply none) (Posted by Jackie and Robbie)(SPC Greta Smith) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 5 Stardate: 2445.09.05 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Medical - aConus Ensign(jg) Harlequin Lavorre - 1411) Harly had just entered her office from lunch, she made it her point to try different places around the ship for lunch and dinner. Sitting behind her desk she looked arcoss the hall at the door of her sisters office she found it interesting that she found her way on the same ship as her sister. She picked up a PADD as she spun around her chair. It didn't really list any appointments but rather the reason she was on this ship. It seemed this ship held more than its fair share of couples. From Newlyweds, to those about to take the plunge, to those just starting out. It was clear the Exeter was quickly becoming a family ship rather than the warship it was. And while people seeked out those familial connections in difficult times. It also ment losses would leave deep scars and increase the time it took to heal from those wounds. But that wasn't here or there for the time being right now she was to help her sister with crew evaluations, and then get into the couples that were forming on ship to get a handle on any possible drama that could arise. (Reply any, none needed) (Posted by Matthew Locke) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 6 Stardate: 2445.09.06 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald - 2310) Ewan lay back on to his bed and sighed with pleasure as his body relaxed into the mattress. It had been another long day and everyone in sickbay had not stopped since they had left earth. There were rumours of a mass casualty drill soon but that could just be rumours and at this moment in time he did not care about tomorrow. All he wanted right now was to crawl into bed and sleep until the morning. There was a beeping from his wall mounted screen and a in coming message icon appeared. “Accept.” The screen changed to the image of his sister who looked like she was sitting on her ready room on board the Vital Spark. She saw him and smiled. =^=Hay little brother are you there yet=^= Ewan rolled his eyes and sighed. “No we are not and you know that.” He saw his sister grin. =^=Well if you had taken the Vital Spark then she would be there by now=^= “Yes, Yes I know with your ship is very fast.” =^=Yes, she is she’s one of the fastest=^= “Until they use that quantum drive thing.” =^=What are you saying that the Vital Spark is not worthy of a quantum slipstream drive=^= “Sis that’s not what…” =^=Now you here me Ewan McDonald the Vital Spark is an important star ship in this new Starfleet. She may not be as fancy as your Exeter or the Illuminar or even the Republic but she fast and nimble=^= Ewan grinned at the image of his sister as her full Gaelic fury knowing it would irritate her more. You never ever say unfavourable things to a Captain about her ship. He saw her glared at him, so he put his hands up in surrender. “Okay Sis sorry……How are things with you at the moment.” =^= We are good. Done a couple of short runs for the Admiral but other wise we have been pootling around the system. There is rumours that we might get sent your way but you know rumours they are not worth the air it takes to speak them=^= Ewan laughed. “That is so true.” =^=So tell me what it is like to be on the Exeter. Have you made any friends, are you colleague’s nice=^= “Yes mum.” =^=You know she will ask me those question when I comm her next. You know that you really should send a message home now and again=^= “Yes, I know it’s just been so busy getting ever thing set up.” =^=Go one tell me then=^= He grinned at her as he began to tell her everything that had happened since he had boarded the Exeter. (reply none) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Ewan McDonald) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 7 Stardate: 2445.09.07 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Holodeck – CFO – Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams - 2332) Ire paused for a moment and looked at the Exeter bridge which he had asked the holodeck to recreate. He had made sure that there was no one around at this time as if the knowledge of what he was about to do get back to Trip he would not hear the end of it. As the Chief Pilot on board he needed to make sure that he proficient at all aspects of piloting the ship. “Computer access Star ship Piloting Program and initiate emergency deorbiting scenario Gamma Two.” The image on the view screen changed to show a Class L Ice planet. He looked at it for a moment before heading over to his console. He glanced over at the system to make sure that he was happy with everything. “Computer, begin program.” The bridge was bathed in red lights and he heard the wail of the red alert klaxon as the Exeter dropped from under him. “Okay firing impulse engines to achieve de-orbit control.” His fingers danced across the console as he brought the nose of the Exeter up as the planets gravity hungrily reached out and gripped her tight pulling her down. He needed to get the Exeter into the right orientation, or they would burn up in the atmosphere. [Warning life-support is failing, structural collapse imminent] “Tell me something I don’t know.” As the Exeter began to bounce and shake as she dropped like a falling star through the atmosphere. Ire glanced at his console to the view screen and back trying to balance out the rate of decline with their forward motion. “Computer, locate possible landing site.” [Unable to comply main computer offline] As he looked out of the view screen. ~Come on, come on. I need some where big and flat, big and flat~ He saw what looked like a gigantic plateau stretching out thousands of miles, but they were heading towards it from the wrong angle. “Okay that looks like a nice spot.” He scanned the console again. He was happy that they had the range to get there but they were going far too fast for a straight run. He began his first turn which would reduce their speed and position them on to the final approach. “Okay lest start aerobraking manoeuvring.” He began another of turn which reduced his speed more but also dropped his altitude as well. With a few more inputs into his console he turned the Exeter on to the long final approach to his chosen he had chosen. He glanced at the altimeter spooling down as he entered the final approach run for landing. “Computer set the structural integrity field to full and configure to jolt mode. Set the internal dampening and the deflector grid to full.” [Confirmed integrity field to full, jolt mode configures. Internal dampening and the deflector grid set to full] “Okay its now down to you. You have to time it right.” He watched as the altimeter spooled down just before touchdown, he hit the forward ventral thrusters which would push the nose of the Exeter up slightly so that the impact would just aft of the Exeter’s curved bottom hull. When the impact came it was brutal. Ire was rocketed forward nearly slamming his face off the console. He watched as the speed began to drop but the Exeter was beginning to lean forward and at this speed if her saucer hit the ground it could snap off from the engineering part or they would start cartwheeling. He slammed his finger down on the ventral saucer thrusters as it pulled the ship back up right. He watched as the Exeter slowed along its slide out path. He fired the thrusters a couple more times to slow down and gradually the Exeter slowed to a halt. He paused for a moment as the settled and rolled slight to the right giving the deck a pronounced tilt. He let out a breath he did not realise that he was holding and grinned. He had done it and there was no fiery explosion. “Computer, show me end result date.” Data began to scroll across his console. ~Okay ships a write off there is no way getting her off the surface, but the crew survived and enough of the system are intact so that we wont all freeze to death~ He stood up from his console and nodded to himself happy with the achievement. “Computer end program.” He headed towards the door as familiar crisscross pattern of the holodeck emerged. “They don’t call me Crash Bandicoot for nothing.” (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 8 Stardate: 2445.09.08 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Quarters of Billy Alexander - CIO/3O Lt. JG Jaelle Foxglove and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 1900) She walked the halls. This was the first time she had been invited to visit Billy’s quarters. She wanted to bring something to have with dinner but Billy had been insistent that this was his affair. As soon as Jaelle got off duty she spent her time getting ready. Over the last few days she had tried to open her world to the rest of the ship. She knew deep down it was for her own good. But she hoped Billy would appreciate her drive to better herself. As she walked the halls of the Exeter she had decided to mark the occasion she wanted to wear something nice for Billy. Jaelle decided on a long flowing sundress that was red that matched her eyes. As the dress moved up her body the red faded to match the natural peach of her soft skin. It was a bright and cheerful piece she hoped Billy would like. Upon reaching his door she checked the time. She was running slightly late but only by a few minutes. Slowly she pressed the actuator that would announce her presence. Billy had been cooking all evening. He had set up a small hot plate and had decided to wow Jaelle on the first official date. He wanted to go that extra mile, that extra step, so that she would know, that he genuinely cared for her, and wasn’t trying to “slay the beast” that was Jaelle Foxglove. His quarters were well ventilated, so the only lingering aromas were the food itself. He had gotten some fresh steaks from the Starlight lounge and had seasoned them simply with salt, pepper, a bit of paprika, and some brown sugar, rubbing them slightly with some olive oil, he let them sit refrigerated for a few hours before cooking them in a frying pan to a perfect medium rare. Then in a separate pan he mixed some heavy cream, butter, onions, blue cheese crumbles and dash of worcestershire sauce. He then drizzled the sauce over each steak. Then placing on each plate some homemade french fries, he set the table with some soft flamenco music playing in the background, the music from his Abuela’s native Spain. Next to each plate was fresh bread that he had gotten from the Nine and Dine and some butter. The table was set with a candle the quarters dimly lit, and a bottle of Red Wine, a ‘38 Chianti from the Bracken vineyard. Answering the door, his jaw dropped. He had never seen Jaelle look so….so…. Happy. He was almost certain that Jaelle had been switched with a clone or a doppelganger. He was wearing White slacks and a pink button down with the sleeves rolled up. Trip had told him once, pink button down is a first date must have. If it worked for Ravok, then it would work for him. “Come in,” he said with a smile, “You look beautiful by the way.” She stepped into Billy’s quarters. She looked to him. "Thank you for the compliment. You look handsome as well." Taking a deep breath she could smell the aromas of a finely cared for and prepared meal. "So what's for dinner?" Whatever it was Jaelle cared little just the fact they could have a chance to be together, to talk, to laugh, to fill each other's heart was more precious to her than any meal. However to say she wasn't ravenous would be a lie. After all Jaelle had made it a point long ago to practice portion control and thus ate little during the day normally. Billy on the other hand did not follow such standards, Jaelle knew the meal would be large and had adjusted her day appropriately. “Well, I worked out today, ran 10k just for this meal. We have steak, with a blue cheese cream sauce, with home made fries on the side. A fresh baguette sliced, some butter. No dessert though. Otherwise I’d have needed to run another 5 kilometers.” She chuckled her normal everyday work out was considered insane by most of the crew. But she enjoyed keeping herself in peak condition. He motioned for her to follow him to the table, then pulled the chair out for her, and then sat down opposite her. “I’m not going to lie, I’m quite a bit nervous. All of the dates I’ve been on in the past year have been just for flings. Go to a bar, get drunk, make out in the park, go home and maybe see each other again, maybe not.” "Really," she smiled. Knowing that Billy was prone to placing his foot in his mouth. “Sorry, I was going through my man whore phase. I didn’t…. You know…. With any of them, but well, I had a particular bench for making out. Don’t know why I just said that…. Honesty is good though right?” "It is." She reached out to hold his hand. "I would be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous also. I don't remember the last time I've been on a date with anyone." She was sincere and she smiled. Even though over the last few days they weren't able to see much of each other. Billy was always in her heart. She released his hand to grab her silverware as a small rumbling noise came from her stomach. She smiled shyly, it was the last thing she wanted to be caught at fasting before a big meal. “You seem a lot happier than a few days ago. It’s like everyday since we kissed, you seem like a different person. Sorry that was a bit direct.” He then, while embarrassed funneled fries into his mouth. "Things change when you have something to be happy about." She stopped him from his fries death march. "It's ok, to be direct with me." With a soft smile, he then spoke up again, "I hope you don’t mind medium rare, I prefer rare, but sometimes, when i doubt, medium rare is the way to go, but anything more than that is just a waste of beef.” After taking a bite she answered. "It's good like you. I prefer mine more on the medium rare side. To me its more enjoyable the meat as more flavor and keeps more of its juices." “Exactly, then again, spending time on a ranch. Everything is fresh cuts, rare, and flavorful.” Taking another bite she looked at Billy. "How have you been these last few days?" “I’ve been good, I’m better now. You know you’re beautiful right?” "Thank you." “Though, I keep thinking back to that picture you showed me…. Jess, is it wrong of me to want to get lost in your eyes….your real eyes.” She looked across the table. "No and I want you to. But I just can't go back." She looked at him as he looked at her. "Don't get me wrong I want to. I…just have to work some things out. And getting authorization from the Captain to get the procedure done." She took a drink of the chilled wine. It wasn’t that Jessica never drank just that It was rare. It was a vice that allowed people to lose control and for her that was something she did not want to happen. “I guess, I can wait patiently then.” He finished his glass of wine and poured himself another glass. “Ailynn Bracken’s family owns the vineyard that produces this wine. Ailynn always gets Trip and I the hook up when it comes to, ummm, stocking up.” "It's a good connection to have. I was wondering why the bars were so well stocked with such top shelf spirits." She joked. She knew there was change in her she had not been this happy since her time on the Rosenanate. But those were also trying times. Here, now, she could get lost in the moment. "Here's to opening up." She lifted her glass to his. “To opening up, and to the Captain Marrying into a family that gives me free wine.” Billy then clinked glasses with Jess and took a hearty sip. “So, I guess before I ask the question, I’ll answer it myself. I find that under thar rough, scary exterior, is a sweet, innocent woman, begging for love and acceptance, and I am drawn to the you inside, to the you that never got a fair shake. And secretly I’m attracted to women that can kick my ass.” She chuckled. "That might be true." “So now that I have answered what I see in you, what do you see on me, why me, why would you want to be with me?” "You accept me, the good and the bad. You want, no push me to be better." She looked up from under the snow white of her bangs. "I've always been good at my job, being what I needed to be. You push me to be a better person. To be more… whole. I've not had that kind of encouragement for a long time. That's just a small sample of a long growing list." “We’ve got the time,” Billy said with a chuckle. "Don't I know it."It was the first time in a long time she smiled at the fact she aged slowly. “It’s still new, though, Jess, still fresh, I hope, I hope a month from now, two months, a year, you still feel the same way.” "I don't," she spoke evenly as she placed her silverware down for a moment. Noticing the concerned look on Billy’s face she continued. "Feelings, emotions they change with time. I hope in a month, a year, or more this will grow into something far greater." “I’ll drink to that.” He said with a smile. The two continued their dinner with laughter and joy, When it was over, without realizing it, the two had made their way half through the second bottle of wine. “I hope you got enough to eat Jess.” "Yes, I did." “I can always find something else for you to eat.” "Trust me, even if you did I wouldn't be able to eat it." Jessica chuckled it was good to hear her name again. Billy stood and poured the last of the second bottle into their glasses and then made his way over to the sofa and sat down. “Kind of wish I was Earthside right now.” "Never spent much time on Earth." “My grandfather had a large parcel of land in east Texas. Divided it into 7 equal parcels, giving himself and each of his six children connecting ranches. The family compound so to speak. On my parents ranch, my folks divided theirs into 5 pieces just last year, and on mine, I have a cabin next to a beautiful pond, with the best fire place. And you know what, I wish I was there instead of here, with a nice roaring fire.” "That sounds nice, cuddled up under a thick blanket in front of a roaring fire. Would you want me there also?" “And yes, you’re there too.” She moved to sit next to him on the couch. "I can't do much about the fire or the ranch." She leaned into him. "But this I can do something about." “What do you have in mind?” He said finishing his wine and setting it down. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her in close. "This, being close to you." She snuggled herself onto place, and yawned. "You know with Trip and Ash, Ire and Greta, and the other couples on this ship they are gonna keep me busy. Making stuffed animals for the kids. Gotta remember to make sure I have a good supply of sewing equipment before that happens." “Well, Trip and Ash, I think they might be the only ones even remotely thinking about kids. Ire and Greta, I think are waiting awhile, besides, Greta is too busy showing off her ring. And Ravok and Keira, they’re a long way off from that. So I think you have time.” "Time flies, so they say." “Is it true?” "Is what true?" She asked about the cryptic question. “Is it true you can’t have kids?” She wrapped her arms across her midsection. It was something she was extremely sensitive about and didn't share the details of often. But she should have known Billy would have probably heard something from Trip who heard it from dear old Admiral Williams. Her voice was layered with different emotions. This was different, it wasn't something That was done to her this was due to her own mutation. "It's true." She said at length. "Due to the mutation that keeps my aging there is just no way of knowing what that would do to a child. Doctors have estimated that to have children under my condition would lead to an 90 percent chance of losing one or the other, and a 78 percent chance of losing both." It was hard to talk about but she promised Billy she was going to be honest. “I’m sorry I brought it up.” he said holding her close. He kissed her on the top of her head. “I didn’t mean to make the mood more depressing. And its….its ok.” "Not your fault." She smiled looking up to him. "Now whoever told you will have some explaining to do." “I mean, I always imagined having a large family, but there are other ways to build a family.” "There are." She smiled as she brought his and to her and kissed it lightly. “If the day comes that I grow to love you, I will love you as you are… If that day comes.” "We will deal with that hurdle then." She finished his sentence for him, then smiled. "Right now love me as I am and where we are." He held her close and smiled. “So what now? We’re both full, have a bottle of wine a piece in coursing through our veins. What do you want to do?” She spoke as she turned to kiss him. "I wish I knew, remember it's been awhile for me. I know it seems odd but you probably have more experience being in a relationship than me." “The last girlfriend I had…..well lets put it this way…. Didn’t go all that well remember.” he began to laugh. "I remember." “I mean, surely you can think of something.” He began laughing, “Or is the great assassin and spy so petrified by nervousness that simple old Billy Alexander has her stupefied.” "Yes, I'm so scared." She faked panic. "Please hold me, I can think straight oh poor me." Billy kissed her tenderly and smiled. “Well who knew that all it took to slay the murder fairy was perfect hair and pillowy lips.” "It was love that slayed the savage beast." She joked as she dramatically threw herself across Billy’s lap. Billy smiled and picked her up in his arms as if she was dead. “Oh woe is me, that this fair beauty has been slain by my hands. For the dark spell has ended and the beast has turned into the beauty she was all along. Oh cruel fates, oh cruel gods, twas the beast I wished to slay, not this maiden. Oh what now shall I do?” She played her part for a moment and started to laugh out loud unable to contain the image the went coursing through her mind. She pulled herself to his ear, and whispered. "Only a kiss of true love can bring the maiden back." Billy cradled her in his arms leant down and kissed her on the lips. “Did it work?” "From you always." Billy placed her down gently. “Jess, I think it’s time for you to go home.” It was an abrupt end but she didn't want it to end. "All good things have to come to an end. Just tell me I didn't do something to upset you?" “No, quite the opposite…. It's…..” She placed her finger on his lips. "Shhh, it's ok." “Look, we’re having fun, we’re flirty, and I don’t know about you, but after splitting those two bottles of wine with you, well, look, I’d rather just throw you on my bed, but I think maybe, given what you said the night we first kissed, you go home, and I’ll see you in the morning.” She nodded. "I had a great time. I hope you did as well." She stood and headed to the door. She turned before the door opened. "I will see you later," she kissed him quickly goodbye before she exited the room and disappeared down the corridor. She stopped outside of eyesite her heart pounded. She could hear it in her ears. Another thing to add to the growing list. He cares enough to put my needs before his own. And he wondered why she was falling… but before things progressed further she wanted Billy to know the real her. (reply none) (posted by Will and Matthew L.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 9 Stardate: 2445.09.09 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & SPC Lt James Hart - 1932) Sitting comfortably on her couch, Erin sighed. A lot had happened in the first full week on the ship and the need to connect with something, someone outside of this little bubble had reached fever pitch within her. Tapping her padd, she spoke, "Computer, open a channel to Lieutenant James Hart Mars base." =/\=Cortez, to what do I owe the pleasure.=/\= Jimmy came on to screen from his home back on Mars. He had taken Trip’s advice and acquired the town home next to his. Partly because it was empty, partly because it was in a nice location, partly because Trip asked his cousin to, so he could make sure the house didn’t burn down in Trip’s absence. "Drop the formality, Jimmy. Just checking in with a friend. That so hard to believe?" =/\=Wow, Erin, I guess what they say about you is true. Can’t tell the difference between people being formal, and people being friendly. What in any part of Cortez, to what do I owe the pleasure, reeks of formality. One, I call almost all of my friends by their last name, and two, would you rather I have said, Cortez, how the hell are you, you son of a bitch?=/\= ~wow, straight talking Jimmy strikes again~ she thought to herself. "Well, no. I should stop reacting, I know. Another of my faults. But one I am trying to work on. How's Mars coping?" =/\=Mars is fine, shes not going anywhere. And yes, Cortez, thats part of what I was talking about in the coffee shop. You have this pathological desire to confront everything, that somehow defies logic. You see the video of your ex, and your desire to confront that caused you to go to the extreme steps not the logic, I say that Archery isn’t a sport I like, and you make it an affront against all Archers from all time, I say to what do I owe the pleasure, and its like you’re upset because you think I’m pulling rank. Come on Cortez, that’s not you.=/\= Smiling, Erin nodded, "it's true. It's been my default setting for so long. Like a habit that's hard to break. I.. I listened to what you said. Really I did. Took a few days to sink in but it stuck. So for that piece of honesty, Thankyou." =/\=Maybe the question you need to ask yourself is when did this defiance first creep in? When did you start confronting everything? And is this with everyone, or is it just with certain people? Do you act defiantly with everyone, or just people you find cute?=/\= "It's always been there. Default setting like l said. History had an impact on me. One I'm now starting to understand and to try to change." She paused for a second, sighed, "It's not easy, breaking habits that have always been there but I'm trying." =/\=Well, I hope you do, because in the end, it’s just going to serve as barrier for folks who really want to get to know you.=/\= "I know. I need to learn to be more open. In a manner of speaking." She replied with a smile. =/\=So anyways, why did you really call? Surely there are people on the Exeter that you can chat with, if all you want is a simple chat=/\= "Would you believe I enjoy talking with you?" She replied, "But, if you are busy then, that's fine." =/\=Well I was watching baseball. Which is immensely more enjoyable than talking to you.=/\= Jimmy laughed so she woud know he was joking, =/\=No really though, I can tell something is on your mind.=/\= "Hit the nail on the head again. You really are a good reader of people." =/\=I’m secretly a mind reader…. Just teasing. Honestly Cortez, you’re not that complex. You aren’t, say War and Peace, you’re more Green Eggs and Ham.=/\= "Have you talked to Billy yet?" =/\=If you’re referring to the fact that he kissed the “murder fairy” than no. Trip told me. He found it kind of funny. But more so because he wanted to tell me because he called it back when I first got to Mars and was showing me around, pointed her out, and said, two case of beer says Billy starts dating the murder fairy. Looks like I lost the bet.=’/\= "It seems like it was meant to be then." “But from talking to Trip, talking to Billy, Billy knows what he’s doing.=/\= "I hope so. We actually had a grown up talk… Billy and I. Was refreshing from the last time we spoke. It just wasn't right. We weren't right. I had way too much baggage and, thankfully, that load is lighter now. I needed to say things to him. He needed to say things to me and we talked. I half expected him to shout, for the way I left. But he's grown. I have, it's like I needed to step back and look at who I was." =/\=Billy isn’t a shouter. It’s kind of why it wasn’t going to work. You always underestimated Billy. You never gave him the credit due. He actually hasn’t really grown. He just….Billy is the kind of guy that if someone is going to get thrown under the bus, will get thrown under the bus with them. That’s Billy. You could have said it was the worst year of your life, and he would have told you that he had the worst year too.=/\= "True. " =/\=You need someone Erin who will call you out on your Bullshit, thats not Billy, hell I don’t know who that is. But it would never be Billy. He and I talked at length about him and Foxglove. She may seem cold and distant, but to hear Billy describe her, the dude is smitten like a kitten, and he deserves the opportunity to explore it. So if you were calling to gossip about Billy and Foxglove, I’m sorry but I’m on team Billyglove.=/\= Smiling, Erin laughed a little. "That's a good way to describe it. To be fair, if he's happy, then I am. He deserves happiness in his life. Jaelle is a good woman. A friend. So, honestly, I am truly happy for him. " =/\=So then I ask again…..if you get that, then why did you call? =/\= "Because, believe it or not, I consider you a friend. That and, even though I am not a counsellor anymore, the fascination I get from people is still there. You fascinate me, Jimmy. And you are not at all what people think you are." =/\=yeah not buying it. You don't make a long distance call just because you find someone fascinating. But whatever I'll humor you.=/\= "Well, thank you sir for that." =/\=so what am I then?=/\= Taking a breath, Erin considered her thoughts for a moment, "You're a good man. I get this sense that you have a side you show everyone and a side you keep close to your chest." =/\=No, I don’t hide him. In fact it’s the reason I have this job.=/\= "Him?" =/\=I’m pretty open with my personal life Cortez, you just never asked.=/\= "Because I don't pry." =/\=My son. Cortez, I accepted the position on Mars to be closer to my son.=/\= ~son… ph well was not expecting that~ she thought, remaining quiet. =/\=So yeah, I am what people think I am, because most the people I know well, know me as a guy trying to do right by his kid. We are acquaintances Cortez, and you were my cousin’s ex, forgive me for not going into detail about my relationship history. =/\= Jimmy replied with a bit of laughter and sarcasm. "So, now I will ask. What happened?" =/\=A few years back there was a civilian research assistant on the USS Oklahoma, the Rhode Island Variant Nova Class ship I was a helmsman on. We were studying some nebula, I don’t remember which one. We had a fling, and we were well, a bit young and careless. I was 23, out of the Academy for a year, she was just starting a graduate program with one of the civilian scientists onboard. She got pregnant. We tried to make it work, but once she went back to Earth, the distance was too much to overcome the personality conflicts. We were a lot like you and Billy, just wasn’t going to work. But I did my best to stay in my kids' life. Thomas Richard Hart, after my dad and hers. Tommy, he’s four. His mom works on Mars. I put in a transfer request to be closer to Earth, to be closer to him, and when the position to replace Trip came up, well my resume came up and they pulled the trigger. So I went from being Chief Helmsman and then later Chief Tactical and Second Officer of the Oklahoma to the Flight Squad CO of Mars. So now I can see my kid every day. That’s who I am Cortez, a good guy, trying to do right by his kid, and helping people learn from my own life. But I’ll never call it a mistake, because Tommy is my universe.=/\= Sitting back, Erin realized something and with a soft smile, replied, "that's very commendable, Jimmy. Truly it is. There aren't a lot of guys that would do that." =/\=I think there are more guys out there like me than you think.=/\= "Look, I'm taking time from your game. I just have one favour to ask of you." =/\=ummm ok?=/\= "Before we chat next, baseball and starship mission notwithstanding, think of something you want to know about me. Ask and I will answer open and honest. Fair is fair" =/\=Cortez, did you only call me because you're attracted to me?=/\= "You really think that?" =/\=Because you're trying way too hard here and its a bit obvious. =/\= "I'm not trying anything and, honest and open, I don't know. " =/\=then how come you can't tell me why you called?=/\= "I'll be honest, there's something about you that has piqued my interest but, I know what you said and I'll respect that." =/\=Look Cortez, we hardly know each other. We're on different ships. I get it, I'm mr. Perfect. You want a piece of the Jimmy pie. Its not the first time someone has been attracted to me because im emotionally available and rather attractive. But im not looking for anything right now. My main relationship concern is that my kid knows his dad.=/\= "I respect that." =/\So if you can truthfully and honestly tell me why you called, then maybe you can call again and we can become friends. but right now, cut the bull. Why did you call? Why is your interest piqued?=/\= Sighing, Erin looked away for a second and then looked back at the screen, "You want honesty? Fine. There's something about you that I find attractive. Not in a physical sense. You know who you are. There's no pretense with you. That is what I find attractive. So yes, if you wanted honesty, there it is. I like you Jimmy. But, I also respect you. You want to do what's best by your son and I won't stand in the way of that." =/\=should have led with that. Look. You dated my cousin. You didn't sleep with him, but y'all made out. And you kinda ditched him. So that's a hurdle. But look I'm not saying there is a never between us. But right now, I don't know you. So tell you what, you can call me again if you like. we can talk, become friends, what have you. And see what happens from there. I'm not making any promises, because while you're pretty, I just don't see us. But who knows. But, Cortez, friends. Thats all I want, from any woman, right now.=/\= "That's fine. I'm gonna leave you to your baseball game. I still have reports to go over. Life of a department head right?" She replied with a smile. =/\=hey erin, thanks for the call. I do appreciate being thought of. Maybe next time you're on Mars you can stop by. I'll probably host trip, ash, and Billy for a game night. You're free to come. You can even meet Tommy. So you know, can learn how to identify the crazies.=/\= jimmy laughed so she'd know he was joking. " I'd like that. Take care Jimmy." She replied and closed the com. (Reply None) (Posted by Jackie and Will) (USS Exeter - Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & FO Lt Ailynn Bracken - 2004) Walking up to Ailynn's door, Erin hefted the bottle of tequila under her arm and pressed the panel at the side of the door. ~I am such an idiot~ she thought to herself as she waited. Ailynn looked to the door in puzzlement, she wasn't expecting any visitors, in truth, these last couple of weeks her conversations after duty had been limited, so a lot of the evening she sat in uniform at the desk in the study in her suite clearing reports. "Enter" she called as she moved through to the large sitting room. Walking in, Erin smiled widely at the sight of her friend, "Tequila Tuesday?" "Password accepted." Her face brightened. "Erin!" She called as the doors opened. "Honey...come in." She hugged her friend. Hugging back, Erin smiled, "Been too long. We are well overdue a catch up." "We are. Glasses are on the side. Give me thirty seconds to shower and change and I'll be with you?" "Go. I'll pour a drink." ~because I need one~ she thought to herself as Ailynn walked off. A minute later and Ailynn strode into her lounge, a mid thigh simple skirt and a loose top having been pulled out of a drawer and thrown on. She sat down near her friend with a sigh. "Been too long. I missed you." "I missed you too. It's been… a trying few days." "Whats up hun?" Ailynn asked. "Oh nothing…" Ailynn sighed, and whinced as the first drink hit. "Oh nothing...or... I feel great Ailynn. Top of the world Ailynn..!" She raised an eyebrow as she shook her hair out of the bobble that she had it tied back in. "I just made an ass of myself that's all. Somethings never change." She sighed. "Want to talk? Or just chat and get horribly horribly drunk?" "Just need a friend but chat and get horribly drunk sounds good." "I'm not advocating anything. Besides I'm not a Doctor any more am I." "Never leaves you though does it? Even if you weren't very good at your job." Erin replied pouring herself another drink. "No. Look...this isn't you whats up?" "I just got a rude awakening and … well, it stings a little. " Aiĺynn looked puzzled, picking up the second shot. "I don't…" "Talked about myself for over a year. Let's talk about you, miss first officer lady." She replied with a wink. Ailynn shrugged. "How long you got?...So my gran had a child in secret 25 years ago and the child is now married to my oldest and closest friend, I have a secret half brother that none of us knew about, and he's now the CMO on board, I'm doing a job that I'm not sure I'm right for and my girlfriend and I separated. How's your year been?" She ended the sentence by downing the tequila without any reaction. "Well, let's see. I got taken over by a megalomaniac cardassian scientist, had brain surgery, spent a good portion of the year at Starfleet medical learning to do things all over again and talking to counsellors, broke up with someone, got a new role in the fleet and got the crap beaten out of me by a romulan business woman who wanted a necklace given to me by a dear friend. And, to top it all off, just made an ass of myself infront of a guy that I find ….. " she looked at Ailynn and started to laugh. Ailynn tried to stop herself, but spat out laughter, choking on the third shot of tequila. "What a pair we make eh?" Ailynn howled with laughter. “It’s like a really bad holonovel. It isn’t even funny.” "You just couldn't make this up could you?" Erin laughed, taking off her cardigan, leant forward and poured herself another drink. Ailynn sat back as Erin removed her cardigan. As she did, Ailynn caught sight of a tattoo where Ailynn remembered she before had a scar. "Erin...that's gorgeous, may I?" "Oh… of course." Erin smiled Ailynn moved the strap from Erin's top aside and admired the wolf tattoo. "Beautiful work" "It's… the scar was weighing me down. That and I needed something. A change." "A new you. I see that. So what happened?" "It's a long story but the short version is I found something. Something that helps me deal with everything. Keeps me grounded and calm and reasonably sane." "And the guy that you find…?" She winked at Erin "you honestly thought I'd miss that didnt you." She laughed. Downing her shot, Erin shook her head, “Should have known you wouldn’t have missed that one.” “Sorry. Stupid brain.” She poured two more shots of the tequila. “It’s … strange. There’s something about him that i like. He’s blunt, very blunt and it’s refreshing…..” Erin paused a moment and sighed. “He treat you right?” Ailynn was protective of her friends. “I doubt he even likes me that way to be fair. He damn near said as much. But still, a girl can hope right?” Erin took a sip of her drink, “Doesn’t help much that i act like a complete and utter kid when i talk to him.” Ailynn smiled sadly. Erin was such a lovely girl, she deserved to be loved by that someone special. “I’m sure that something will happen and it will blindside you.” “True. I forget sometimes how far i’ve come this last year. I’m not the same person i was. Noth the same woman that sat in that prison…” (Flashback!!!! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA) Sitting in the room with only a forcefield between her and the other chair, Erin knew that this would be difficult. Knowing that Ailynn was only in the other side of the door behind her, watching on the display that was by her helped but she couldn't shake the feeling that this was going to be difficult. For seven years, she had fought hard to keep this man out of her mind, out of her life and here she was sat waiting to face the wolf that kept chasing her. Kept waking her in the middle of the night. Taking a deep breath, she tried to calm her mind. Fixing a neutral look on her face, Erin became acutely aware that she was tapping her fingers on her knees. Footsteps, the noise outside the door opposite her made her shake slightly as she lifted her gaze. The door opened as a guard walked in first, followed soon by her nnightmare.As he was sat in the chair the other side of the forcefield, Erin fought to keep her breathing under control. Erin's breathing quickened slightly as she looked into the face that had haunted her dreams. His eyes locked on to hers as he was brought in and sat opposite her. "Hello, little bird." Ailynn sat next to one of the guards. A young male human, about the same age as her. He’d flirted slight as Ailynn had joined him in his office. Something that Ailynn had found endeering somehow. “Thank you for this. This being recorded?” He shook his head. “No Ma’am. We’re monitoring it, but...it’s only to keep her safe. Ailynn nodded, and turned back to the screen. She could almost sense Erin’s nervousness. Watching Christian enter the room, she could see why the young Erin would fall for him. Muscular and ruggedly handsome, he was a looker for sure. There was something though, an edge around his eyes, a tension where each smile didn’t reach, each expression was tempered by the stone cold look deep within. Taking a deep, steadying breath, Erin looked at him and replied softly, "hello, Christian. " "So, to what do I owe this pleasure? Back for round 2 are you?" He replied with a smirk as he leant back in his chair. "I… " Her mind went blank. She fought against her natural instinct to run. To not look at him, for fear of what he would do. Looking away for a second, Erin closed her eyes. "Aw look, little bird is still scared. Now tell me, why are you here? Surely you can't still want me?" Ailynn leant forward, leaning on the desk. Biting a lock of her that she did sometimes when she was on edge. “Come on Erin...be strong.” She whispered.” Opening her eyes, Erin looked into the gaze of what was her personal demon and replied, "No." Softly. Leaning forward, Christian, mockingly, put a hand to his ear and said, "I'm sorry, I can't hear you." "No. I don't want you. " Leaning back, he smirked, a look that he knew Erin would remember and she did. That look was the one that haunted her, the look he gave her right before he broke her collarbone. "I don't believe you…" he looked at her, looked all over her and then saw. The new pip on her collar. "Look at you little bird. Finally got what you wanted. Someone must be a complete idiot to have given you that. I mean come on. We both know what you are truly worth." ~Don’t let him play you. Be strong. You are not that person any more.~ Ailynn thought. Erin put her hands flat on her knees, looking at him, "You never saw me did you? Never truly saw me. Just saw what you could take, control and try and break." "Oh I broke you. I saw you try and run. Should have run faster." Glaring at him Erin felt something that she hadn't in a long time. Pity, disgust and a fire in her. She felt her true worth. "I did run. I run so far and so God damn hard. I found something that you will never understand." Laughing, Christian leant forward, "Oh yeah, little bird. Do tell what that is that you think you found? " Erin sat back in her chair, "I found me. I found myself. The thing you tried to break, the person you tried to hurt. I found her. And she, she is strong, she is powerful. She is sitting here in front of you. I found friends. That is something you can never understand." Shaking his head, Christian glared at her, "You liar. You were mine. I broke you down. What you think you are now… that's because of me. You owe me your life, little bird. " Nodding, Erin replied, "You're right. You gave me the power to see myself for what I truly am. I'm a fighter, a survivor. You gave me the power to fight for something that I believe in and I believe in him, he believes in me and you… you never did." "Him? So, you finally found someone that enjoys second hand rejects?" ~Don’t you dare try and cheapen her like that…~ Ailynn’s blood boiled. She was gratified to see that Erin drew strength from the place that once had only held fear. Standing from her seat, Erin leant towards him, glaring down at him, "This pip in my collar, I got this because I worked hard. You had nothing to do with it. I realized that you have no power over me, not anymore." Standing tall, Erin stepped forward and looked into his eyes one last time, "You have no power over me anymore." She turned and walked towards the door behind her. "GET BACK HERE!" Came the yell and then she turned back. Looking into his eyes, she glared, feeling her own self worth rising in her like a fire and yelled, "You are nothing, you haunted me for so many years. I see you now. A weak, small little man." Turning, she walked to the door and through it, punching the wall as she did in utter anger and frustration at the fact she had let this man rule her life for so long. ~not again, not anymore. ~ Ailynn sat back, and looked at the guard, who spoke to her. “Didn’t see anything Ma’am. I was watching the whole time. Other Fella will say the same thing too.” Standing up. Ailynn smiled. “Thank you. You guys do such a great job, I can’t imagine doing something like this. I’d better go. Thank you.” Walking out of the room, she looked at Ailynn, shaking. Leaning against the door, Erin looked into the eyes of her friend, "Take me home. Please.. " Ailynn pulled Erin into a hug. “Shuttle’s on warm up already. Wheels up in 5. You did great. Now you can move forward. This ghost can’t hurt you anymore.” Leaning into her, she trembled against her, "I just hope I can. " Looking at her, she sighed, "You got a med kit with you?" Ailynn laughed. “Girl Guides are always prepared, you know. I’m getting quite used to fixing boxing injuries. I’ll do it on the shuttle.” "Thanks. Let's go home." Nodding she led Erin toward the door. "Home. Sounds good" (Present) Downing her drink, Erin smiled, “So, enough about me. Why don’t you think you are suited to being FO? Do you not think Trip would have asked you if he didn’t think you were perfect for the role?” Ailynn nodded. “Perhaps, but you know how neurotic I am, I need to micromanage every tiny little aspect and understand it. It’s the reason I’m a great surgeon. I’m just scared I can’t translate that into being a good Leader.” Erin put a gentle hand on her friend’s knee, “You are an amazing woman. But sometimes you need to take a deep breath, not micromanage and go with the flow. Hard to do, trust me i know. But, something was said to me in counselling. There's a reason that the road is long. It takes some time to make your courage strong. You, from what you said earlier, have had a longer road than many. Buckle up, buttercup because things are about to get fun. Be scared. Being scared keeps you alive, keeps you alert. Although don’t let that fear overtake you. And, if you feel the urge to micromanage, take charge of my love life because, girl, I suck at it.” “Now there you’re talking to the wrong girl.” She shrugged, “For lots of reasons. Can’t manage my own for a start.” “Well, maybe we should just be single old spinsters with cats who grow old together then. Would be a lot easier than dating.” “That’s really sweet of you.” She downed another shot of tequila. “I’d like to be your crazy cat lady...friend...spinster...thing.” Ailynn looked puzzled, confused by her own sentence. Erin smirked a little and then laughed, “Oh lynn, what are we going to do? Two good looking ladies, sat drinking together when we both know that that special someone is out there for both of us. Me? I’ve forgotten how to talk to…. Anyone like that. I get flustered, talk utter rubbish and basically turn into a kid. You… you are just so amazing that you don’t see it, do you? I’m just a mess. Well, was a mess now i’m a department head mess.” “You...are lovely. Funny, kind, rather silly, and honestly stunning.” “Kind of you to say that but sometimes, honestly, i wonder if…. If i am ever going to find that one person, you know? That person that makes you just tingle every time you think of them and you know has your back no matter what.” She shrugged. “I understand, and I know that you’ll find them. Because like I said. You’re pretty great, anyone that doesn’t see it doesn’t deserve you.” Pouring herself another drink, Erin sighed and looked at her friend, “You realise you should take your own advice sometimes.” Taking the glass in her hand, Erin smiled, “There’s something here that you aren’t telling me isn’t there?” Ailynn smiled, and shrugged. “I don’t know…” “You don’t have to. Just… you have been a sister to me. I want you to know you can talk to me if you want to. Okay? Hunny, you were there for me during the worst year of my life. You have to know that i will be there for you.” Erin smiled and raised her glass, “To new horizons, to getting past old mistakes and to making a whole new set of them!” (Reply No-one) (Posted by Jackie and Mark) (USS Exeter – Sickbay – CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 23:00) Gabe stood looking at the room, today had been the day he was waiting for, building up to a full test of his staff and his equipment. Waiting for most of the staff to go off duty to simulate a full emergency. The decks holo emitters were ready to flood deck seven with casualties. There was a mock up of the bridge and engineering in the holodecks and the shuttle bay stood by ready to partake when needed. The Sickbays main functions had been transferred to the disused labs in the drive section to allow it's normal function to continue with a small skeleton crew. Deck seven closed off to non participating officers. Gabe looked at the quiet room, he hoped the crew would react as needed. "Computer start timer and evaluation tools" [Acknowledged] "Sickbay to Bridge, begin test" (Reply Bridge) The room shook as did the quarters of any of the off duty medics. The Klaxons sounded and Gabe jumped to. =/\= decompression on deck eight, Sickbay stand by for casualties=/\= "Understood" Gabe called moving into the main body of sickbay. "Ok team, we have incoming from a decompression situation. Prep all med stations ready the main ward for overflow triage." (Reply any in sickbay) The doors opened and in came the first wave, even knowing this was a simulation Gabe's heart pounded a little. As the team attended to the casualties there was another rock. =/\= incoming casualties EPS conduits ruptured deck seven section 12=/\= ~here goes~ "vesper to all medics, activate emergency protocol beta, off duty doctors report to Sickbay. Ensign Michaels report to Sickbay." (Reply Poldan, Wakeman, Ryelle, Michaels, anyone wanting to play a medic) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:03) Adala hadn’t had much time in her quarters over the past several days, preferring the calm of the geology and science labs. The holodeck hadn’t even given her much solace lately. Things had changed since her trip to earth. Where she used to find peace in climbing and the holodeck, there was none, not lately. Maybe it was fear …. She didn’t know. But for now her work was where she found peace and quiet. She’d just settled back, a book in one hand, glass of bloodwyne in the other when the comm came to life. "vesper to all medics, activate emergency protocol beta, off duty doctors report to Sickbay. Ensign Michaels report to Sickbay." ~ What now …~ she thought to herself, She’d not had to put her medical training into use in a while. Whatever it was had to be major. She hopped up, book and bloodwyne forgotten as she tapped the comm. “Michaels to Vesper. On my way.” She pushed her arms into her jacket and fastened it with one hand while slinging a medical bag over her shoulder, from its place next to her door. Even if she never used it, her training was there, to always be prepared. (posted by Kathleen) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:05) Several minutes later she stepped through the Sickbay doors. Her eyes roaming the room for the CMO. When she spotted him she headed in his direction. “Where do you want me?” She knew he’d fill in the blanks as to what was happening while she worked. The injured were her first priority. (Reply Vesper, Any) (Posted by Kathleen) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – CMO - Ensign SG – Gabe Vesper - 23:07) Gabe was directing the teams around, "Nurse bring me dermal regenerator" "Here you are" Nurse Silvine said handing the tool over then bumping into several injured crewmen. "Not there, plasma burns to ICU, treat walking wounded in here" Gabe called as more officers were brought into Sickbay. "10cc Metropan now please" Gabe held out his hand as a nurse handed it to him, injecting the screaming crewman he turned to the next. “Where do you want me?” Micheals voice came through the hubbub. Without looking he replied. "Decompression on deck 8 and Plasma Conduit blow out in deck 7. We're treating minor to full body plasma burns in ICU and triage in here. Some are showing signs of space exposure. Grab a tricorder and a triage pack from the duty nurse, we have another wave incoming." (Reply Micheals, all med staff, any) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Sickbay – ACScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 23:08) Adala dodged folks on her way to the CMO and heard his words "Decompression on deck 8 and Plasma Conduit blow out in deck 7. We're treating minor to full body plasma burns in ICU and triage in here. Some are showing signs of space exposure. Grab a tricorder and a triage pack from the duty nurse, we have another wave incoming." ~ Oh wow, when it rains it pours~ she thought as she turned on a dime and found her way to the duty nurse, retrieving the required items, triage pack tucked in her medical bag, tricorder being opened os she moved to meet the first of the next wave of patients at the door. (reply anyone who wants to play the part of the nurse, Adala doesn't want to step on toes and neither do I) The memories which came flooding back quickly got pushed into the back of her mind as she assisted a couple crew members who carried an inert form between them. "What happened?" She asked as she began to scan the patient, her eyes on the body before her. She shut out everything except that which she needed to treat the man. her ears alert for voices, those she needed to hear ... the crew who brought him in, the doctor, but she allowed the background noise as it were to drop away and become 'invisible'. Her hands ran over the man, noting his injuries, both seen and unseen. The tricorder aiding her in the findings. The pack was pulled out of her bag and immediately opened. Its contents finding their way into her hands while she worked. She never lifted her head as she worked on the trio. But tossed questions at the two crew who were not uninjured themselves. While the man on the bio bed was far worse off, his injuries were treatable but would take time, the other two had less invasive injuries but ones which needed treatment to get them back to helping to bring in the injured which she knew outweighed the uninjured at the moment. (Reply Vesper, all med staff, any) (Posted by Kathleen) (USS Exeter – Deck 7 Section 12 – Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald - 23:10) Ewan stepped into chaos. Section 12 looked like a bomb had gone off which in principle it had when the plasma conduit exploded. There was debree and mashed bulk heads as far as he could see along the corridor. He paused for a split second as his brain took in the scene of devastation in front of him. ~Okay game face on and get your brain in first gear~ He heard the moaning and screams of the injured as he pulled him self out of the momentary shock. He crossed to the first person he saw was a crewman who had been slammed into a bulkhead by the explosion. “Yah pal, can you hear me.” “Yes. Ow my arm it hurts.” He reached for his tricorder which was not there as he was off duty. ~Looks like it is back to basics~ “Okay don’t move lest me check you over.” Ewan quickly and gently did a fingertip searched of the crewman. “My arm hurts so bad.” “I know, do you hurt anywhere else?” “No just my arm.” He nodded as his eyes double checked his what his initial check had found that the crewman had not suffered any other unforeseen injuries. “Okay we will get you to sickbay where they can give you a proper one over and some painkiller.” He turned to see other people hurrying down the corridor towards him. He waved one person over. “He needs to be taken to sickbay. From my initial check he only has a severely burnt arm which may be broken.” Ewan paused for a moment as the crewman got taken away. ~One down more to go~ He moved down the corridor and came across a junction which had more wounded needing help. “Hay you two. Start triaging these patients and getting them to sickbay. I’ll look for more.” As he moved on, he paused trying to get an overview of the carnage. ~Okay so we have decompression below and this. We are going to run out of space fast~ He mind danced back to the mass casualty plans that he had worked on with the Albatross mobile surgical team. Quickly counted the casualties in his head. ~If this is just a few and from the decompression. We need space of the minor wounded so that the emergency cases do not get lost in the mas of people~ He tapped his comm badge. “Nurse McDonald to Sickbay.” (Reply Sickbay) “I am in section 12 doing first response. I have seven patient heading to sickbay. Four walking with minor injuries, one with medium and two with sever.” (Reply Sickbay) “Doctor from the look of things here. We will push sickbay past capacity with what we have here let alone the wounded from the decompression. I request that the main shuttle bay be allocated for minor injures and post op care.” (Reply Sickbay) (Reply Sickbay, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Ewan McDonald) (USS Exeter - Deck 7 – Engineering PO – Kenny McCormick - 23:11) In the middle of the night it was a good time to get work done fixing the loose ends from the other shifts made easier to do most of the ship being asleep. Checking his padd. "Hmm, secondary plasma manifold conduit was showing micro fluctuations." He spoke to himself. Pulling the hood of his orange hoodie over his head. These ships where always colder in the dark of night. Working the graveyard shift allowed him to get away with unauthorized garb. Pulling the cover off the plate that needed work. He brought his tricorder to bear. It was a tight fit but to get a good reading her extended his arm into maintenance space. What happened next could only be considered fate as Kenny's body surged as he somehow found a way to plug into the ships power grid. Lights dimmed as the energy from the plama conduit poured into him. There was a vague memory of him flying across the corridor and down the hallway that way behind him. He landed, bounce then landed again with a thud. Vaguely he heard screams. "Oh my God they killed Kenny." Then all faded to black. (Reply medical) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Deck 7 – MO, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle, MD - 23:14) Ryelle arrived on the scene for the simulation. The holo emitters made the deck look like a war scene. It looked real, but it was all a simulation. Everything was carefully planned and anything that could cause an explosion on the sections of Deck 7 that were affected had been shut off. Part of it was safety part of it was the fact that no one wanted to piss off the Chief Engineer. Foxglove may have had the nickname murder fairy, but ever since she had become an item with the Strat Ops officer she had seemed to be gentler, which in itself was frightening. But while everyone called Foxglove the murder fairy, Ryelle was more scared of the Chief Engineer. While he was convinced that while Foxglove might make a sport of it, Merek the Chief Engineer would just straight up murder you. While there were some that thought Foxglove was scarier than Merek, Ryelle was certain that Merek would be more likely to throw someone out of an airlock. One of the crewman who were acting as the "casualties" approached Ryelle as he moved further into the "fray." "Doctor, please come quick, Kenny is hurt, I think it's bad." Nodding Ryelle replied, "Show me to him crewman." yet the tears streaming down the young crewman's face indicated that she was either a hell of an actor or something might have gone wrong. "Crewman, what exactly happened to, ummm, what did you say his name was, Kenny?" "Well when the simulated explosion went off, he jumped too hard for dramatic effect and slammed his head hard on the ground, now he's bleeding but for real." Hearing this Ryelle began sprinting down the corridor to where poor Kenny was. Arriving he put down his medkit and took out his tricorder and began scanning. He also activated a recording device. "Patient appears to have laceration on the back of the head from impact on the ground, as well as bleeding, Minor skull crack but nothing too severe. Patient also appears to have a concussion due to impact with ground, vitals are ok for now, but recommend immediate treatment. Long term prognosis for recovery good, but will need a few days of being off duty." Ryelle then turned to the three crewmen that were gathered around their friend Kenny. He would later come to learn that their names were Kyle, Stan, and Erica. "Don't worry, he's going to be ok." Then tapping his commbadge, "Prepare for site to site medical transport to sickbay, Authorization Kyros Zeta Seven Zero Two." And in a flash he and Kenny had been transported to sickbay so that Ryelle could attend to his wounds. (reply none) (posted by Will) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 10 Stardate: 2445.09.10 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Spa - Steam Room – CIO 3/O Lieutenant jg Jaelle Foxglove and CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 17:00) Sitting in the steam room, with just a small towel around her, Erin sighed. This was one of the only places that she had found where she could be still, calm and let her mind wander. Things were playing on her mind and she knew that she wasn't the only one that knew this. It's amazing how small events can change the direction of one's life. It had been over twenty years for someone to find a place in Jaelle's heart. So long she had forgotten how it felt like. Deciding on a change of pace after a swim she entered the steam room her body wrapped in a towel. The heat felt wonderful against her skin, the sudden change from the cooler waters of the pool made the steam rising off her person even more enjoyable. Seeing Erin. "How are you." She spoke kindly has she took a seat next to her. Opening her eyes, Erin looked at the woman sitting next to her, "I'm actually okay. Been a strange few days but I'm good." She looked at Jaelle again with a wry smile, "you look different. " "Not much," she spoke not wanting to hurt Erins feelings about her and Billy. She knew there were still feelings, and the last thing Jaelle wanted was to rub salt in the wound. Raising an eyebrow, Erin looked at her for a moment and then leant back, closing her eyes, "You know, sometimes people keep secrets to themselves because they are afraid that whatever it is will hurt the person who actually just needs to hear the truth." She sighed…Erin had a point. God she was bad at handling social meetings. Give her a phaser or her tonfas. "Billy came over last night. We talked for a bit." She looked at Erin trying to gage where to far was. "We decided to give us a try." Taking a deep breath, she opened her eyes and looked at Jaelle. "He needs a good woman in his life. I am happy for you both. And I appreciate that you told me." A thought entered her mind and she smiled, then started to laugh a little. "What is it?" She asked quizzically. Erin started to laugh more, then gathered herself and smiled, "I bet he would give anything to see us two talking right now. Especially after everything. " She laughed at the thought simple and pure. "I bet he would." Knowing at how worried Billy would get about those close to him. "He would be pacing outside here to make sure we don't kill each other." She replied with a laugh. "Its good to laugh." She smiled at Erin, "I hope your doing well." Sighing, Erin looked down for a moment, "Can I speak plainly?" "We're in a sauna with nothing but towels on. I'm sure we can talk openly about whatever you like." She spoke sincerely. "I won't lie and say talking to Billy wasn't difficult because it was. We weren't compatible. Wrong place at the wrong time. I wasn't in a good place before that whole Dulon saga. But now, I am. I am settled, calm and a lot better. I found something that works for me. Not something that most would understand but she helps me." "What's that;" she asked quizzically, "or who is it?" "Freyr." Erin replied simply. Knowing that the reply would invite questions, she looked at Jaelle and smiled. "How Much do you know about meditation and spirit guides?" It was a pointed question Jaelle normally kept her faith out of conversations. "Freyr, norse God of fertility among other things, if memories serve." She smiled. "I know a bit." The truth was she knew more than what she let on. It was just conducting meditations to connect to a spirit guide for her was risky. "That's right although in this instance, Freyr is just her name. When I was away, at Starfleet medical, my father tried his best to understand and he could, to an extent. However, he knew that no matter how much he held me when I cried or when I called him at 2am after waking up in a cold sweat, he knew that I needed something else. So, he took me to see an old friend of his. He taught me how to connect with my guide. Since then, Freyr helped me to be calm, to understand things that my conscious mind couldn't and helped me in a way the counsellors couldn't. "You were right when you said that, unless you have stared into the face of darkness, you can't understand. " She smiled. "Im glad you have found a measure of solace in your guide. That's what spiritual guides are there for. They help you lift you up help you stay the course." She looked at Erin as she learned back against the wooden boards of the steam room. "I will always try to give good counsel, I may not always be right. But I try to help as much as I can." "I won't lie and say I don't struggle some days but every day it gets a little easier. My major concern is this mission. Bajor…. He had memories of there and I am sure there is bound to be someone there that remembers him." "But he is not you, and last I check Bajorans can't read minds. So how should they know. I understand it I do, the unrealistic fear that everyone is looking at you. That your darkest secrets are there for everyone to see. But you are not him, he no longer as control of your life. You have done nothing wrong." Jaelle spoke from the heart, a heart that had experience in these matters, and even if she told Erin that before she would continue to say it till Erin found it in her own heart to move on. "I know. I know. She tells me that to. That we are not the same person but that he is, in some small way, a part of my oath in life. My journey and I have to acknowledge that. Even when I don't want to." "Thats understandable but let me be frank." She responded. "Acknowledging and trying to make amends for something that you didn't do are different things." She nodded. "I understand wanting to do something to make it right. But what if wanting to make things right only brings more pain. Acknowledge and accept what he was and what he did to our life not everyone else." Nodding, Erin smiled softly. "Who knew that we would be sat here, in towels in a sauna having such a deep conversation? It's not something I would have said." She paused for a second and then continued, "Honestly, I half expected you to charge in here and ask me if I had feelings for Billy." "I heard it's said that it's easiest to lay your soul bare when you are already bare. Something about removing layers." Jaelle spoke adding a hint of humor. "As for Billy, feelings just don't go away over time they may alter, change, become different but they never go away. And I would never embarrasse you in such a manner." "He will hold a place in my heart. But romantic? Not anymore. We were both too young. In heart and mind. Now, I know that I am ready to be with someone. Whomever that may be." "And that's a good place to be, and if they are not worthy of you. At least you have someone in your corner that will make them disappear." She chuckled. Smiling, Erin winked, "that is something to know. I hope I can find someone to share my life with. Someone who is willing to take on the crazy." "I hear that," she laughed. It was still to early to know if Billy would be the one to take on her crazy. She hoped, but only time would be able to tell. "Listen, please don't feel that, because you are dating Billy, you can't talk to me. No man should come before a friend." "Billy and I are together, and I'm still here talking to you." She smiled. "You are a friend thats not going to change Erin." "I know. The last thing I want is for it to become awkward. " "Yes, I would also like to avoid awkwardness." Stretching, Erin leant forward and splashed some more water onto the hot stones in the steam room. The hissing as the water hit made her take a deep breath and calmed her nerves. The steam felt great, the entirety of the steam room was relaxing. To have such a place on the Exeter was still mind blowing. Jaelle breathed deeply taking in the steam like it had a purifying effect on her soul. However all good thing most end, and spending to long in a steam room was never advised. Jaelle had already felt her body temperature on the rise. It was time to get out, get a glass of milk and shower before heading on to other duties. "Jaelle?" She stopped and turned to Erin. "Yes." "Thankyou. " "It's not a problem" Jaelle remembered what is was like when she first learned of Lily and how much control she could exert over her day to day actions and the drastic measures she took to gain control. "I have close friends but you are probably the only person that really understands what this is like for me. So, Thankyou for being understanding and not judging me." "I have the benefit of experience. I've been where you've been." "We should do this again sometime." "It's a small ship." She smiled. "I'm sure we will see each other, around." (Reply none) (Posted by Matthew and Jackie) (USS Exeter - Deck 9- Holodeck – Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels & (SPC) TAC. PO3 Sytuk Ryakna-2303) Sytuk was in the holodeck watching the holograms dance. He felt a little more comfortable with allowing the holograms to interact with him. He found it remarkable that the holograms were human in appearance, yet they didn't recognize him as Reman. He liked that aspect. No one shrieked at his appearance. To the holograms he was just like them. As the music played he closed his eyes. The song " Runaround Sue" was playing. He tapped his foot to the music. He was lost in the moment that he didn't hear the holodeck door open. Adala had requested the holodeck and when she entered was surprised to find it already occupied. She stopped just in the door, seeing the occupant was not aware of her entrance and cleared her throat. Her voice had a normal tone, not wanting to startle him. “Hello?” Sytuk opened his eyes and turned his head to see the archway of the holodeck over his left shoulder. He stood up quickly. " Computer pause program " he commanded and the music stopped and the people within the program became statuesque. He looked at her, noticing she was an officer . " Sir, is everything alright?" Adala waved her hand and nodded. “Everything is fine. I am just surprised to see you here. I had scheduled this time slot.” she shrugged. “I will come back later.” ~ Stop her. Don't let her leave. This could be a good chance to make a friend.~ he thought to himself He raised his hand motioning her to stop. " No, I lost track of time. You do not have to leave." Adala stopped and turned around. “You sure?” she said as she moved back into the holodeck. ~ Deep breaths take it easy. Don't scare her.~ " Yes I am sure. It is I who should be leaving. This is your time Sir." He said as he pushed the chair he was sitting in back under the table. Adala laughed. “Ma’am will do, I am not a Sir by any means, Or better yet .. just Adala.” She’d never been one for titles. “You are welcome to stay.” Truth be told she wasn’t sure what she thought she would accomplish. She’d been avoiding the holodecks and wasn’t sure what had pulled her here now. " Ma'am...you are an officer , a superior member of the crew. It is only proper procedure that I address a superior properly. " he paused taking a step toward her . " I also know you aren't a Sir...you have nice... hair" He said instantly feeling like a fool. ~ Nice hair? Well it looks nice ~Sytuk thought to himself. Adala couldn’t help but smile. “While on duty it’s Ma’am or Sir, you decide.” she motioned around them. “While off duty it’s Adala.” She nodded towards the table and chair. “What was that music you were listening to?” He stepped back towards the table and looked around nervously. " Umm it's called golden oldies, old earth music from the mid 20th century. I will end the program so you can begin yours" he said looking at her. ~ Why am I so nervous?~ Adala shook her head. “No, don’t.” She moved closer to the table. “Tell me more about your program?” She was curious, he didn’t seem like the kind of guy who would like golden oldies. He took a deep breath glancing around the room with his eyes " It's hard to explain. It's a program designed for me to watch people interact with each other in a…" he briefly paused searching for the right words. "happy environment." He looked back at her. " I am not a social person, so this helps me experience social settings while remaining in control. If that makes sense " He said to Adala, feeling oddly refreshed that he just shared so much with a complete and total stranger. She nodded. “It sure does.” she sighed and swallowed as if fighting something … uncomfortable. “I am not much of a social butterfly myself. I come here to get away from people.” She paused and shook her head. “Before you take what I just said wrong, I am glad I found someone here actually. Continue your program please.” Her mind suddenly filled with darkness, she shuddered and shook it off. “Please..” Sytuk looked at her strangely as she shuddered. He felt something odd, something he never felt before. A brief feeling of darkness, a darkness that wasn't his. He dismissed the feeling. " As you wish. Computer, resume program" He said as he pulled his chair back out and sat down slowly. The music resumed playing and the holograms continued dancing with each other. Adala pushed the feeling of panic down and forced herself to smile slightly. The darkness was gone, brief as it had been. She listened to the music, and watched the figures dancing. "This is really nice." she said, her tone somewhat distant now. " My counselor on mars recommended this program to me. It's simple and...non aggressive, which is apparently what I need in my life. Well my personal life." He explained as he crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair, had the safety protocols been disengaged his massive weight would of crumbled the chair by now. “Much like my climbing programs. It gives me peace when I climb.” She said as she pulled herself back to the here and now, the darkness now forgotten. “What other things do you like to do?” she tipped her head as she watched him. He was different, but in a very refreshing and enlightening way. ~ Small talk? Is this small talk? Maybe this is just conversation ~ Sytuk thought. " I actually don't know what I like to do, I am still figuring it out. I used to like being dropped into a hostile situation and eliminating enemy targets and completing mission objectives. Now I find myself listening to songs about holding hands and being under something called a boardwalk down by the sea." He chuckled, this was an odd feeling for him. He wasn't the chuckling type. He for some reason was completely comfortable with this stranger, this woman. " Painting, I like painting." She perked up and looked at him, "Painting? What sort of painting?" Becoming more interested in the young man before her. " Landscapes. I paint landscapes. Streams, rivers, mountains, beaches. Stuff like that. " He replied. Adala smiled. "Would you be willing to show me some of your work?" More and more he intrigued her. ~And they call me strange~ she thought. He looked at her with a confused look, slightly tilting his head. " Why? You really want to see them? " He questioned the woman sitting at the table with him. Adala nodded. “Yes really. I am not good with things like that. I spend most of my time either playing with rocks in the lab or climbing them here in the holodeck.” "What do you climb? Trees? Stairs?" Sytuk asked intrigued, genuinely intrigued Adala shook her head. “No, I climb cliffs, rock faces. That is why I came on the holodeck, to spend time climbing.” Sytuk looked around at the room of holographic people. " If you came to climb than perhaps you should climb, I will end the program." Adala shrugged. “Only if you want. I can do this anytime.” She was enjoying his company and didn’t want him to leave if she started her program. “Will you stay? Join me in the climb?” He looked at his hands " I have climbed walls and gate before, I have never climbed a cliff, but I can try." He said hesitantly, but interested at the same time. He was truly conflicted. Adala stood and motioned for him to do the same and for him to end his program. Sytuk stood with her . Adala spoke “Computer begin Adala cliff level 1” she was not happy having to do lower level exercises but she had promised the doctor she’d take it easy for a while. She knew at level one all the safeties would be on and the climbing would be easy. The visage changed to a cliff rising out of a mist, they stood in the mist at the base. “This is a really easy level. If you want we can move to harder levels as we go.” He looked at the cliff and was astonished at that surrounding landscape ~ I will have to paint this ~ He noted to himself. " I will follow your lead." He said to Adala. Adala moved to the base of the cliff and looked upward. It didn’t take her long to find what she was looking for. She reached up and found a hand hold, pulling herself upwards. After that she just seemed to know where to reach. Not that the program was static, it was ever changing but she was at home on the cliff face. She stopped about 10 feet up and looked down. “Come on. You’re taller than I am, just look for little nitches where you can grab with your hands and tuck your toes into.” She smiled down at him and waited patiently. He stepped toward the rock wall in front of him and jumped onto it. Firmly grasping the rock wall. He pulled himself up to her level. The safety protocols made falling nearly impossible. He looked over to her. " Higher?" Adala smiled “Great job.” she looked upward and nodded. “Of course, we have the whole cliff to climb. It rises into the clouds. It’s one of the tallest in my programs.” She reached up and grabbed at a tiny niche, almost impossible to see, and pulled herself upwards. " The clouds? " he shook his head. " If you say so" he reached up and pulled himself up using his massive arm span to scale the wall with ease. His right foot slipped and his forehead hit the cliff wall. He grunted " I'm fine " He exclaimed as he continued his climb with her. Adala stopped and turned toward him. “You sure?” She frowned. “I”m sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed. We can stop.” " You said it rises into the clouds. We still have a long way to go, stopping is not an option" He remarked continuing his climb. Adala laughed and pushed herself upwards. “Let’s go then.” she shook her head. “Want to race?” She knew she had what she thought was an unfair advantage. His height might be an issue but she hoped she could beat him. With that she pushed herself upwards even harder. He stopped climbing and looked over to her " A race? a competition. You're on" the pair began their race up the cliff face. After a while they reached the summit. Sytuk watched Adala pull herself over the edge of the cliff and onto the top. He pulled himself to the same point. Adala sat on the cliff edge, her legs dangling over the edge. “That was fun.. and close.” She smiled over at him. “You did great.” Sytuk pulled himself on to the top and sat on the flat ground. " That's only because the safety protocols were activated and it was a level one climb. " He stated as he looked out to the view from atop the cliff. He took a deep breath as he enjoyed the view. “Beautiful isn’t it?” she said before letting out a sigh. “Only reason the safeties were on and it was such a low level climb was orders from the doctor. He’s not letting me go without the safeties for a while.” Even though she hadn’t been grounded, she felt it. He nodded his head in agreement to the view being favorable. He turned his head and looked at her " Orders are orders and they must be followed, without orders we have chaos." He stated but instantly regretted how forceful his statement was. " Im….sorry" Adala stood and shook her head. “It’s ok, He has his reasons and they are sound. Even if I don’t agree. If I continued the way I had been I could have been hurt enough to have to leave Starfleet. I don’t want that. This is my life.” Sytuk thought for a moment and an idea popped into his head. He stood up and stepped towards her. " You said you wanted to see my paintings." She looked at him and nodded. “Yes I would love to see your paintings.” " Hold your hand out in front of you " He said to her. “Ok” Adala held out her hand, her eyes on him, wondering what he was going to do.” Sytuk looked at her hand nervously. She had shared this holodeck experience with him so he wanted to share something with her. He raised his hand and touched her hand, as he did he thought of his paintings, different ones. The beach, the foot bridge over the stream. The mountain overlooking the lake. The painting he did on a ceramic tile for the counselor. Adala started as the visions flowed through her head. The look on her face was one of wonder and amazement. " Did you see them?" “They .. they are … beautiful.” she said as her gaze moved upwards to his face. She paused. “How …” confused as to how he was able to do what he did. The visions were so clear. He withdrew his hand and turned away from her slightly. "Telepathy runs with our race. When Romulans were discovered to have telepathic abilities they were either killed or sent to Remus to live as slaves. Over the years the gene for telepathy worked it's way into our people. Not all of us have the abilities though. I discovered mine when I was young." He said looking at his hands. " I can only transfer brief images or feelings by touch." Adala tipped her head. “Sounds interesting.” she frowned slightly. “Could be a curse too I suppose?” The visions she’d seen were still fresh in her mind, imaging what it would be like if they’d not been nice visions. " I have used it to inflict pain on people , I have shared my suffering with them, gave them a taste of my pain, my rage ,my…" He stopped himself from going on any further. " Thank you Adala, but I must be going." He said to her, he needed to get away so he could deal with these feelings away from her, she didn't need to see him like this. Adala frowned but nodded as if she understood. “If you ever want to go climbing again, give me a holler.” She paused and spoke again. “Computer end program.” The scene changed and they found themselves standing, surrounded by the stark hologrid. " I will " He nodded his head to her as he turned and walked toward the exit, as he reached the door he stopped and made a slight movement of his head as if he were going to turn around and say something, but he started moving again and walked out of the holodeck. His loud footsteps fading into the diantace . Adala watched as he left the holodeck and let out a sigh, before heading out the door and back to her quarters. ( reply none needed) ( posted by Kathleen Deal and Rob Davis- Spc PO3 Sytuk ) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<